VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Healing Through Horses: Equine Therapy for Veterans with Katie Fallon May 14, 2025

Show notes

🎙 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 emotions, and find new purpose post-service.

💬 Episode Highlights:

How horses sense human emotions and trauma
The impact of equine therapy on mental health and PTSD
How veterans can access free equine-assisted programs
The science behind horse-human connection
Keith’s first horseback riding experience (and the core workout he didn’t expect!)

📢 If you or someone you know is struggling with transition, this episode is a must-listen!

🔗 Follow Bridle Paths: www.bridlepathsva.org
🎧 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more powerful conversations!

#VETSOS #PodcastForVeterans #EquineTherapy #MilitaryMentalHealth #HealingThroughHorses #VeteranResources #PTSDSupport #TherapeuticRiding #HorseHealing #MilitaryTransition

Bridging the Gap: How Defenders Gateway Supports Veterans & First Responders May 07, 2025

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🎙️ 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 navigate the overwhelming number of available resources by bringing them all into one easy-to-use app.

🛠️ What You’ll Learn:
✔️ How Defender's Gateway helps veterans and first responders connect with vital support networks
✔️ The importance of mental health, career opportunities, and community resources
✔️ The launch of Version 3 of the Defender's Gateway App and its new features
✔️ How businesses can support defenders and contribute to their well-being
✔️ Why apps like Defender's Gateway and podcasts like VET S.O.S. are crucial for veteran transition and success

📲 Download the App & Get Connected:
🌍 Defenders-Gateway.com

🔗 Follow VET S.O.S. for More Veteran & First Responder Support:
🌍 Website: vetsospodcast.com
🎙️ Listen on Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
📱 Facebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcast
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcast
🐦 Twitter/X: x.com/vetsospodcast
📌 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
🎵 TikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast

⭐ Don’t forget to follow and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more veterans and first responders who need a lifeline.

#VeteranTransition #FirstResponderSupport #MilitaryLife #DefendersGateway #VetSOS #VeteranJobs #MentalHealthMatters #MilitarySupport #NonprofitOrganizations #CommunityResources

QRF Up: The Lifesaving App for Veterans & First Responders | VET S.O.S. Podcast Apr 30, 2025

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🎙️ 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 needed, a trained responder who can be on-site within 100 miles.

🚨 Key Takeaways:
✔️ How QRF Up is revolutionizing crisis response for veterans & first responders
✔️ The power of peer-to-peer support in mental health
✔️ The national expansion of QRF Up, launching Memorial Day 2025
✔️ Kayla’s personal journey and why she left federal work for this mission
✔️ The importance of asking for help – and why it takes true courage

💡 Download the QRF Up App: Now available on Google Play, Apple Store, Garmin, & Apple Watch.

📞 Need Help? Call or Text: 515-318-3371

🔗 Get Involved & Support the Mission:
✅ Website: vetsospodcast.com
✅ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
✅ YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
✅ Follow @vetsospodcast on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, & TikTok

#VeteranMentalHealth #CrisisSupport #SuicidePrevention #FirstResponderWellness #MilitaryTransition #PeerSupport #QRFUp #VeteranResources #HelpIsOnTheWay #VETSOS

From Marine to Mission: Matt Watkins' Operation Headshot & Veteran Success Strategies Apr 23, 2025

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🎙️ 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 emotional and financial struggles of transitioning from active duty
✅ How a $48K job offer changed his career trajectory
✅ The power of networking & personal branding
✅ Why professional headshots matter for job seekers
✅ How Operation Headshot provides free photography training for veterans & spouses

💡 Connect with Matt Watkins & Operation Headshot:
🔗 Website: OperationHeadshot.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Matt Watkins
📧 Email: Matt@OperationHeadshot.com

📌 Follow VET S.O.S. for More Episodes:
🌐 Website: vetsospodcast.com
🎥 YouTube: @vetsospodcast
📱 Socials: @vetsospodcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok & Twitter

🔊 Subscribe & Leave a Review!

🎯 Top 10 Hashtags for Spotify:
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #OperationHeadshot #VeteranNetworking #CareerSuccess #USMC #MilitaryLife #VeteranResources #JobSearch #Leadership #VETSOS

Eradicating Veteran Homelessness: Tunnels to Towers’ Mission w/ Gavin Naples Apr 16, 2025

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🎙️ 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 foundation has provided housing and services to over 10,000 veterans and 5,000 children, with plans to develop 1,500 housing units across 15 major cities. Learn how they’re making rapid, community-driven impact to end veteran homelessness while also supporting first responders and their families.

🔹 Key Takeaways:
✅ How Tunnels to Towers is changing the landscape of veteran housing
✅ The growth of veterans’ villages and nationwide case management
✅ Why financial literacy and employment support are critical for veterans
✅ Upcoming projects in major U.S. cities
✅ How YOU can support their mission and get involved

📌 Learn More & Support:
🌐 Tunnels to Towers Foundation – t2t.org
🎧 Listen to More VET S.O.S. Episodes – https://open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM

#VETSOS #TunnelsToTowers #VeteranSupport #EndVeteranHomelessness #MilitaryHousing #VeteransVillage #FirstResponderSupport #VeteranSuccess #TransitioningMilitary #SupportOurVeterans

Breaking the PTSD Stigma – Jonathan Sheridan on Mental Health, Resilience & Recovery Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

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 transition out of the military to exploring therapy, meditation, psychedelics, and other healing methods, Jonathan dives into the importance of normalizing conversations about PTSD and breaking the stigma around mental health, especially in the veteran and first responder communities.
This is an episode you don’t want to miss, filled with actionable advice, personal stories, and valuable insights that can help veterans, first responders, and anyone struggling with trauma. If you or someone you know is dealing with PTSD or mental health challenges, this episode is for you.
💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✅ Jonathan’s tough transition from the military and its challenges
✅ The stigma surrounding PTSD in the military and first responder communities
✅ Effective therapy and coping mechanisms for trauma recovery
✅ How avoiding mental health struggles can lead to destructive behaviors
✅ The power of self-improvement and resilience
✅ The importance of seeking help and breaking the cycle of avoidance
✅ How the Normalized PTSD podcast is helping veterans and first responders
✅ Resources for veterans struggling with PTSD and suicide prevention
🚨 If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7: Dial 988, then Press 1. You are NOT alone! 🚨
💬 Connect with Jonathan Sheridan & Normalized PTSD:
🌐 Website: www.normalizePTSD.com
📷 Instagram: @normalizePTSD
📧 Email: normalizePTSD@gmail.com
🎧 Follow VET S.O.S. for More Veteran Resources & Inspiring Conversations!
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
🎙️ Listen on Your Favorite Podcast Platforms
📱 Social Media: Follow us on all platforms @VETSOS
🌎 Website: www.vetsospodcast.com
💥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Your support helps us continue to provide valuable resources to the veteran and first responder communities.
⚓ Remember: Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! 🚑💙
#VETSOS #PTSD #MentalHealthAwareness #Veterans #FirstResponders #MilitaryTransition #EODTech #Resilience #SuicidePrevention #Podcast

Unlocking VA Benefits & Military Transition Success | Networking, VR&E & More Apr 02, 2025

Show notes

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 invaluable insights on networking, military transition, VA benefits, unemployment compensation, adaptive sports, and career opportunities. If you’re a veteran, transitioning service member, or military supporter, this episode is packed with essential knowledge to help you navigate your post-military journey.
🔹 Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
✅ Jason’s military transition journey – The highs, lows, and lessons learned
✅ The power of networking & LinkedIn – How to build real connections and maximize opportunities
✅ Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service Members (UCX) – A little-known financial safety net
✅ VR&E (Veteran Readiness & Employment) – A life-changing program for career development
✅ Adaptive sports programs – Resources to help injured veterans regain mobility and confidence
✅ Resume-building tips – How to translate military experience into civilian job qualifications
✅ VA benefits explained – Why it’s critical to apply and take advantage of what you’ve earned
✅ Military Transition Roundtable & MilTrac – How these organizations provide critical guidance
✅ The stigma of asking for help – Why seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness
✅ AI-powered veteran tools – How new tech is helping military members transition smoothly
💡 Resources Mentioned:
🔗 Connect with Jason David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-david-72791966/
🎯 Whether you’re just starting your transition or have been out for years, this episode will provide insights, resources, and motivation to help you succeed.
🛟 Don’t drown in a sea of transition – grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! 🛟
💬 Join the Conversation!
✔️ Have a question for Jason or the VET S.O.S. team? Drop it in the comments!
✔️ What’s been your biggest challenge in transitioning out of the military? Share your experience below.
👍 Like, Comment, and Subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes!
🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss out on valuable veteran resources.
#VETSOS #VeteranResources #MilitaryTransition #VeteranAdvocate #LinkedInNetworking #VAbenefits #UnemploymentCompensation #AdaptiveSports #ResumeBuilding #VeteranSupport

Honoring WWII Heroes: Forever Young Veterans’ Mission to Heal & Remember Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

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, take them on life-changing journeys back to battlefields and memorials, and provide them with honor, healing, and hope.
Since its founding, Forever Young Veterans has taken veterans on 59+ Honor Trips to historic sites like:
✅ Normandy, France (D-Day beaches)
✅ Belgium (Battle of the Bulge)
✅ Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
✅ Washington, D.C. (WWII, Korean & Vietnam Memorials)
✅ Italy & England
📌 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
🔹 Why WWII, Korea, and Vietnam veterans still struggle with PTSD & combat stress
🔹 The impact of revisiting historic battlefields and memorials
🔹 Stories of healing and camaraderie from these unforgettable trips
🔹 How you can volunteer & support Forever Young Veterans
📢 Get Involved & Support the Mission:
🌍 Visit: ForeverYoungVets.org
📩 Volunteer & Donate: Help us find and honor our aging heroes!
🔔 Subscribe & Stay Connected:
🔥 Follow VET S.O.S. on social media for more powerful veteran stories!
🎧 Listen on YouTube, Wreaths Across America Radio, Parade Deck, and all major podcast platforms.
💡 Remember: Don’t navigate transition alone—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! 🚀
🔗 Connect with Us:
✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetsospodcast/
✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vetsospodcast/
✅ Twitter/X: https://x.com/vetsospodcast
✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
#VETSOS #Veterans #ForeverYoungVeterans #WWII #DDay #VeteranSupport #PTSDHealing #HonorFlight #MilitaryHistory #VeteransHelpingVeterans

Mu Beta Phi: Ending Veteran Homelessness & Building Military Brotherhood Mar 19, 2025

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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 for transitioning service members, Mu Beta Phi is leading the charge in supporting our heroes beyond their service.
💪 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The Challenges of Veteran Transition – Navigating the shift from military to civilian life
✅ How Mu Beta Phi Provides Lifelong Brotherhood – A fraternity built on military values
✅ The Herculean Effort Initiative – Combating veteran homelessness one mission at a time
✅ Mighty Warriors Mentorship Program – Supporting young men, military dependents, and future leaders
✅ The Importance of Mental Health & Veteran Support Systems
✅ How to Join or Start a Chapter – Expanding Mu Beta Phi’s reach across the U.S. and internationally
✅ Why Community Involvement & Veteran Advocacy Matter
✅ Ways You Can Get Involved & Make an Impact!
📢 If you're a veteran looking for community, mentorship, and resources, Mu Beta Phi is here for you. Don't navigate transition alone—find your brotherhood!
🔗 Connect with Mu Beta Phi:
🌐 Website: www.mbphikings2017.org
📌 Follow & Support VET S.O.S.
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
🎙 Podcast Platforms: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and more!
📱 Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/vetsospodcast/
🌍 Parade Deck | Wreaths Across America Radio
🚨 DON’T DROWN IN THE SEA OF TRANSITION. GRAB THE VET S.O.S. LIFELINE! 🚨
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #MuBetaPhi #MilitaryFraternity #VeteranResources #Mentorship #VeteranTransition #VeteranBrotherhood #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranHomelessness

Healing Veterans Through Art Therapy | True Top 1% Foundation | Mental Health & PTS Recovery Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

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 from trauma and combat stress through painting, music therapy, culinary arts, woodworking, and more.
JR walks us through the powerful impact of programs like Painting for PTS, Beer Bottle Painting Therapy, and Captain S. Claus, all of which are designed to provide free mental health toolkits and camaraderie-building workshops for veterans across the country.
If you or a veteran you know could benefit from creative outlets for mental health and suicide prevention, don’t miss this episode! 🎧💙
💡 Key Topics Covered:
✅ How Art Therapy Supports Veteran Mental Health
✅ Painting for PTS – Turning Stories into Therapeutic Art
✅ Beer Bottle Painting Therapy – Transforming Self-Medication into Self-Expression
✅ The Importance of Culinary Arts & Music Therapy for Veterans
✅ How True Top 1% Provides FREE Mental Health Toolkits
✅ Captain S. Claus – A Military Santa Bringing Art to Veterans
✅ The Power of Creative Healing & Suicide Prevention
✅ Partnering with Military Bases, MWR, & Veteran Organizations
💬 Connect with True Top 1% Foundation:
🌐 Website: TT1P.org
📧 Email: info@truetop1percent.com
🚨 VET S.O.S. is here for you! 🚨
We’re committed to helping veterans successfully transition by connecting them with resources, support, and an incredible network of veteran advocates.
📌 Follow & Subscribe for More Veteran Resources:
🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
🎧 Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Wreaths Across America Radio | Parade Deck
📲 Follow on Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
🔹 Don’t drown in the sea of transition – Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! 🔹
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #ArtTherapy #MentalHealthAwareness #PTSRecovery #SuicidePrevention #TrueTop1Percent #CreativeHealing #MilitaryTransition #VeteranResources

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