VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Heroes to Heroes: Saving Veterans Through Faith, Healing, and Moral Injury Recovery Jun 25, 2025

Show notes

Michael 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 and community reintegration. Learn about their impact, how to apply, and why this model stands out among veteran support efforts.

This episode explores:

The concept of moral injury and why it's often misunderstood
The importance of peer support and faith in healing
Real stories from veterans who found transformation in Israel
The vital role of family referrals and community connection

Visit heroestoheroes.org to learn more or get involved.

🎙 Follow VET S.O.S. for more episodes that spotlight transformational resources for veterans, military families, and transitioning service members.

#Veterans #MoralInjury #HeroesToHeroes #MilitaryHealing #FaithAndRecovery #IsraelTrip #PeerSupport #SuicidePrevention #VETSOS #VeteranPrograms

Mission Transition with Matthew Louis: A Tactical Guide for Veterans and Employers Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

Welcome 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 is the cornerstone of successful transition. You'll hear insights on:

Translating military skills to civilian careers
Building veteran-inclusive hiring programs
Supporting military spouses and senior leaders in transition
Leveraging free tools like PurePost and matthewjlouis.com for long-term success

Whether you’re a service member, veteran, employer, or advocate, this episode is packed with tactical takeaways and inspiration to help you thrive after service.

🔗 For resources, visit: matthewjlouis.com
🎙 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. and don’t miss an episode!

#VeteranPodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCareers #MissionTransition #HiringHeroes #CareerSupport #TransitionResources #MilitarySpouses #LeadershipAfterService #VETSOS

Empowering Military Transitions: Act Now Education & MillMentor with Jai Salters Jun 11, 2025

Show notes

Join 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 opportunities.

Cohosted by Dr. Hira, this episode explores:

Jai’s ongoing transition journey
How Act Now helps veterans reskill before they leap
Why mentorship through MilMentor fills a critical gap
How Service to Success connects talent directly to employers

If you're navigating your transition or supporting someone who is, this is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen & share this lifeline: www.vetsospodcast.com
🗓️ Join the Weekly Rundown at www.actnoweducation.com
Follow Jai: www.milmentor.com | www.service2success.org

Subscribe and stay connected:
YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
#MilitaryTransitionSupport #ActNowEducation #MilMentor #JaiSalters #VeteranResources #TransitionReadiness #VeteranEmployment #MilitaryMentorship #VETSOS #ServiceToSuccess

Three Years of VET S.O.S. with Dr. Vincent Soto: Dressing for Success & Transforming Transitions Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

Three 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 embodies what it means to lead with passion and purpose after service.

In this episode:

Reflecting on the podcast’s 3-year journey
Dr. Soto’s transition from Navy medicine to veteran advocacy
Why appearance and confidence go hand in hand
The impact of professional style in job interviews
His vision for combining nonprofit support with affordable business attire

This isn’t just about suits. It’s about empowering veterans to show up ready — mentally, emotionally, and professionally.

🔗 Follow, share, and support the movement at vetsospodcast.com

#VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #CareerReady #DrVincentSoto #TransitionToTransformation #VeteranStyle #MilitaryToCivilianLife #JobInterviewTips #VeteranEmpowerment

🎖️ Operation Protect Veterans: Fighting Scams Against Veterans with Inspector Carroll Harris May 31, 2025

Show notes

This 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 targeting veterans are on the rise—and they’re more sophisticated than ever. From fake charities to fraudulent VA loan schemes, scammers are leveraging the trust and camaraderie veterans share to manipulate and exploit. But there’s good news: education and awareness can protect you.

In this episode, Carroll breaks it all down:

The most common scams targeting veterans in 2025
Why veterans are statistically more vulnerable to fraud (40% more likely!)
The impact of identity theft, predatory lending, and benefits fraud
A practical 3-step tool: Pause. Breathe. Connect. — to resist high-pressure scam tactics
Personal transition reflections and how battle buddies can help each other stay safe

We also explore the emotional and mental side of transition—especially how scammers prey on vulnerability during difficult life phases like PTSD, financial stress, and post-service isolation.

Whether you're a veteran navigating the civilian world, an active-duty service member preparing for separation, or a family member trying to support a loved one, this episode is packed with vital insights and tools to keep you one step ahead.

🎯 Action Step: Visit uspis.gov/veterans to access free videos, bilingual scam alerts, and learn how to report fraud.

👥 If you found value in this episode, please follow, rate, and share. Let’s protect our community—together.

🔗 Find VET S.O.S. on social media:
Website: www.vetsospodcast.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
Instagram: www.instagram.com/vetsospodcast
X (Twitter): x.com/vetsospodcast
Facebook: www.facebook.com/vetsospodcast
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast
YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast

#VeteranScams #VeteranAwareness #OperationProtectVeterans #MilitaryTransition #VeteranFraud #MilitaryLife #FederalAgentInsights #PostServiceSupport #VeteranEmpowerment #VetSOSPOD

From TEDx to NASA: John Bates on Mastering Communication for Military Transition Success May 30, 2025

Show notes

🎧 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, and leaders through powerful, science-backed communication strategies.

💡 You’ll discover how communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s how you make people feel. With insights drawn from neuroscience and evolutionary biology, John teaches how to connect emotionally, build trust quickly, and influence with integrity.

🎯 Episode Highlights:

What communication training really means (and why it’s essential)
How storytelling can give veterans an edge in interviews and networking
The importance of emotional connection before logic
Why small talk is actually strategic connection-building
How to craft a powerful origin story to lead every introduction

Whether you're stepping into the workforce, launching a business, or leading a team, communication training can unlock the next level of your post-military journey.

📩 Want free resources?John offers free weekly mini-trainings, an origin story guide, and direct support for veterans. Mention “VET S.O.S.” when reaching out.

📍 Find John at:

Website: www.johnbates.com
Email: john@johnbates.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnbates

📌 Be sure to follow the VET S.O.S. Podcast for more episodes focused on veteran education, entrepreneurship, and successful transition strategies.

#CommunicationTraining #VeteranTransition #LeadershipSkills #JohnBates #MilitaryToCivilian #PublicSpeakingTips #VeteranEducation #SoftSkillsForSuccess #VETSOS #ExecutivePresence

Healing Invisible Wounds: UF Health’s Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program for Veterans & First Responders May 29, 2025

Show notes

What 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 Jacksonville. Steve shares his personal healing journey—from debilitating symptoms to complete transformation—thanks to this groundbreaking initiative backed by the Avalon Action Alliance.

The Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program provides free, comprehensive care for veterans and first responders dealing with TBI and post-traumatic stress. With a unique blend of clinical therapy and integrative practices like art therapy, canine and equine support, and mindfulness, the program is delivering life-changing results.

Here’s what makes this episode a must-listen:
✔️ Real-world stories of healing from invisible wounds
✔️ A breakdown of how the program works
✔️ No-cost access for veterans and first responders
✔️ Insights on how YOU or a loved one can apply
✔️ How the program is leading the charge in veteran mental health nationwide

💬 “I thought I had to live with this forever. This program gave me my life back.” – Steve Papas

💡 If you’ve experienced symptoms of TBI or PTSD—or know someone who has—this episode may be the most important one you hear this year.

📞 Call Steve Papas directly: 904-576-0604
🔍 Apply: Google UF Health Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program

🎧 Subscribe & follow VET S.O.S. to hear more interviews with veterans, advocates, and leaders reshaping the transition landscape.

#LeonHaleyBrainWellnessProgram #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #TBIRecovery #BrainHealth #PTSDHelp #FirstResponderWellness #UFHealth #ArtTherapyHealing #AvalonActionAlliance #VETSOS

Lead With Purpose: Veteran Transition, Leadership & Legacy with Algrish Williams May 28, 2025

Show notes

In 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 leadership principles to thrive post-service.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

The importance of knowing what you don’t want during transition
Why people-first leadership creates lasting impact
Bridging military and civilian communication gaps
How veterans can reframe and communicate their transferable skills
Why connecting with the right people changes everything

We also discuss his books:📘 "Navigating the Transition" – for veterans entering the corporate world
📙 "Lead With Purpose" – for leaders building intentional, people-first organizations

Tune in to hear how Algrish continues to impact lives through mentorship, leadership consulting, and unwavering service to the veteran community.

💬 Want to connect with Algrish?
🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/algrishwilliams
🌐 Website: www.williamsleadership.com

🎉 Thanks for being a part of the journey to 150 episodes! Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share this episode.

#VETSOS #VeteranTransition #LeadershipMatters #AlgrishWilliams #WilliamsLeadership #TransitionTips #VeteranSuccessStories #PurposeDrivenLeadership #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranVoices

From Combat to Podcasting: Scott DeLuzio’s Mission to Support Veterans May 27, 2025

Show notes

🎙 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 and resources.

Topics covered:
✔️ Surviving the loss of a loved one in combat
✔️ Overcoming PTSD and mental health struggles
✔️ Transitioning from military life to civilian success
✔️ The mission of the GWOT Memorial Foundation
✔️ The power of veteran storytelling through podcasts

🔗 Resources & Ways to Support
📖 Surviving Son (Scott’s Book): Available on Amazon
🎙 Listen to Drive On Podcast: https://driveonpodcast.com
🏛 Support the GWOT Memorial Foundation: https://gwotmemorialfoundation.org

💡 Follow VET S.O.S. for More Inspiring Stories & Resources!
🌐 Website: vetsospodcast.com
📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
🎙 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
📢 Social Media: @vetsospodcast

#VeteranSupport #VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #ScottDeLuzio #DriveOnPodcast #PTSDAwareness #GWOTMemorial #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryLife #VeteranAdvocacy

Veteran Transition, Mentorship, and Leadership with Jeffrey Lodick May 21, 2025

Show notes

In 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 Episode:
✅ The real challenges of military transition and why it’s more than just finding a job
✅ How to build a strong network and why mentorship is key to success
✅ The emotional impact of leaving the military and finding your new purpose
✅ The power of podcasting in sharing veteran stories and lessons learned

Jeffrey brings years of experience, wisdom, and straight-talk advice for veterans and service members preparing for their next chapter. If you’re transitioning or supporting someone who is, this episode is for you!

🎙️ Follow and Subscribe for More Veteran Success Stories!

📌 Connect with Jeffrey Lodick on LinkedIn

📌 Follow VET S.O.S. on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast

🔗 Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
🔗 More VET S.O.S. Episodes on Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM

#VeteranTransition #MilitarySuccess #MentorshipMatters #VeteranNetworking #LeadershipDevelopment #PostMilitaryCareer #VeteranLife #PodcastCommunity #CareerGuidance #VETSOS

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