VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Healing Trauma: How Operation Angel Wing Supports Veterans & First Responders Dec 25, 2024

Show notes

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 countless lives. Mary, a survivor of prolonged cycles of abuse, and Zeke, a 23-year Army Special Operations veteran, share their personal stories of resilience and purpose. Their combined expertise and life experiences form the foundation of OPAW, which provides tailored support to those navigating the emotional and mental scars of service. Discover the groundbreaking six-week protocol they’ve developed, which addresses the root causes of trauma and empowers individuals to move beyond it. The episode also explores the systemic challenges in traditional mental health systems, the importance of addressing pre-service trauma, and the power of community and faith in the healing process. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: - The Birth of Operation Angel Wing: How Mary and Zeke’s paths merged to create a mission-driven organization. - Breaking Down Pre-Service Trauma: Understanding how unresolved trauma before service impacts long-term mental health. - The Six-Week Protocol: A revolutionary approach that achieves results traditional systems struggle to match. - Challenges with the Mental Health Industry: Why current frameworks fail many and how OPAW fills the gaps. - Faith, Resilience, and Community: The vital role of faith-based support in healing trauma. 📢 Resources Mentioned: 📧 Email: OpalationAngelWing@gmail.com 🌐 Website: https://www.OperationAngelWing.org 💼 LinkedIn: Operation Angel Wing 🎧 Why Watch This Episode? - Gain insights into trauma and its lasting effects from experts with firsthand experience. - Learn about innovative approaches to mental health and post-traumatic growth. - Find out how you can support or seek help from Operation Angel Wing. 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from VET S.O.S. Podcast! Follow Us: 💻 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Podcast Platforms: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM "Don't drown in the sea of transition. Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline!" #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #FirstResponders #TraumaRecovery #OperationAngelWing

Wayne Soares: Veteran Advocacy, Cooking Show & Vietnam Stories | VET S.O.S. Podcast Dec 18, 2024

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🎙️ 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 brave men and women who serve our country.
Wayne’s work ranges from writing the widely acclaimed Veteran Spotlight column, where he’s conducted over 780 interviews with veterans, to hosting the hit cooking show The Mess Hall, which brings veterans into the kitchen to share their favorite recipes and stories. He’s also the creator and co-producer of Silent Dignity, a moving documentary that sheds light on the untold experiences of Vietnam veterans, giving them a voice after decades of silence.
📌 What to expect in this episode:
- Wayne’s unique journey into the veteran advocacy space despite not being a veteran himself
Heartwarming stories from his Veteran Spotlight series, including incredible tales from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam heroes
- The origins of The Mess Hall cooking show and the delicious dishes shared by veterans—including Maryland crab cakes and Mexican sweet corn 🌽
- Behind-the-scenes stories of Silent Dignity and the powerful healing it has brought to Vietnam veterans
- Hilarious moments from Wayne’s comedy career, including unforgettable encounters with generals and troops
- Plus, Wayne delivers his signature Joke of the Day that will leave you in stitches! 😂
💡 Who should tune in?
Whether you’re a veteran, a military family member, or simply someone who admires the courage and resilience of our service members, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and stories that will stay with you long after you listen.
🔗 How to connect with Wayne:
Email: wayneswords1@gmail.com
Websites: The Mess Hall - https://www.youtube.com/@themesshall9190
Veteran Spotlight Articles - https://www.capenews.net/
Silent Dignity Documentary - https://www.silentdignity.us/
📣 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the VET S.O.S. Podcast on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms for more incredible stories and resources to help veterans thrive.
🛟 Remember: Don’t drown in a sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline.

#WayneSoares #SilentDignity #TheMessHall #VeteranStories #MilitaryCookingShow #vetsos #vetsospodcast #Veterans

Road Home Program: Free Mental Health Support for Veterans & Families | VetSOS Podcast Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

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 families access critical mental health services.
The Road Home Program provides comprehensive, no-cost mental health care to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Through its innovative Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), participants can achieve months of therapy in just two weeks. The program’s impressive results include a 93–96% completion rate and significant reductions in PTSD symptoms for 50% of participants.
Joseph dives into the challenges veterans face in their transition to civilian life and how programs like Road Home fill the gap by providing personalized, impactful care. He also highlights the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health and offering support to service members, regardless of discharge status, VA eligibility, or location.
📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Joseph’s personal transition story and his passion for supporting the veteran community.
- How the Road Home Program provides global access to mental health care, with all travel, lodging, and services covered at no cost.
- The details of the two-week IOP, including individual and group therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, and even acupuncture.
- The program’s holistic “mind, body, and soul” approach and its success in improving mental health outcomes.
- How veterans and their families can sign up for or support the Road Home Program.
🌟 Key Takeaways:
- Camaraderie and Community: How veterans find renewed connection and support during the program.
- Customizable Care: Options for family members, virtual therapy in 42 states, and a focus on long-term success.
- Breaking Barriers: The importance of serving veterans who may not qualify for VA services or who have challenging discharge statuses.
📞 Contact Information for Support or Collaboration:
Website: https://roadhomeprogram.org
Email: Joseph_R_Zolper@rush.edu
Phone: 312-854-9807
💬 Whether you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, family member, or supporter, this episode is packed with insights, resources, and hope.
Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline!
📺 Subscribe for more episodes filled with impactful stories, resources, and actionable support for the military community.

#MentalHealthAwareness #RoadHomeProgram #HealingJourneys #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryFamilies

Operation Homefront: Transforming Veterans' Lives | SOS Podcast 🎙️ #GivingTuesday Dec 04, 2024

Show notes

🎙️ 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 in the Air Force, Bob has dedicated his post-service life to building strong, stable, and secure military families. From offering critical financial assistance to families in need to providing transitional housing programs that set veterans up for homeownership success, Operation Homefront ensures that military families thrive—not just survive.
💡 What you’ll learn in this episode:
- The challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life.
- How Operation Homefront’s programs like holiday meals, back-to-school supplies, and baby showers offer both emotional and economic relief.
- The game-changing transitional housing program, where families save thousands and are set up to purchase their own homes.
- Inspiring success stories of military families who have found stability and new opportunities through Operation Homefront.
🎯 Why this matters: Veteran homelessness, financial struggles, and transitional challenges are real issues. This episode sheds light on solutions and resources available to veterans and their families, and how you can contribute to making a difference.
📢 It’s Giving Tuesday, and there’s no better time to support Operation Homefront’s mission. Whether you can donate, volunteer, or simply share their story, every action counts.
👉 Visit Operation Homefront: https://www.operationhomefront.org
💌 Get involved: Donate, volunteer, or learn more about how you can make an impact.
Don’t miss this episode packed with insights, stories, and actionable ways to support those who have served. Like, subscribe, and share to help us spread the word!

#OperationHomefront #GivingTuesday #vetsos #vetsospodcast #OperationHomefront #VeteranSupport #MilitaryFamilies

How the Adopt-A-Vet Dental Program is Changing Veterans’ Lives | Interview with CEO Deme Gonzalez Nov 27, 2024

Show notes

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 affects quality of life. The conversation covers the origin story of the program, which began 15 years ago with a simple desire to help a few veterans and has since grown into a statewide initiative in Nevada. With over $10 million worth of free dental services provided and a network of more than 160 volunteer dentists, this program is changing lives one smile at a time. Deme also shares the personal experiences that drive his unwavering commitment, including the loss of his brother in Afghanistan and the challenges he faced transitioning out of the military himself. From raising awareness about the critical gap in veterans' dental care to the ambitious vision of bringing Adopt-A-Vet to every state, Deme's dedication is truly inspiring. The episode explores: ✅ The barriers veterans face in accessing dental care and how Adopt-A-Vet is bridging the gap. ✅ The importance of partnerships with dentists, legislators, and community members. ✅ The upcoming state-of-the-art dental clinic exclusively for veterans, set to open in January 2025. ✅ Plans to expand the program nationwide with training and support for other states. Support the Adopt-A-Vet Dental Program: 🌐 Website: https://adoptavetdental.org 📞 Contact: Las Vegas: 702-268-2836 / Reno: 775-470-8707 Join the Mission: Whether you’re a veteran in need of care, a dentist looking to give back, or someone passionate about making a difference, you can help expand this incredible program. Visit their website to learn how you can get involved or make a donation. Follow VET S.O.S. Podcast: 💻 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Podcast Platforms: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM Experience the power of community, passion, and purpose in this must-watch episode. As Demi says, "It’s not just about fixing teeth—it’s about restoring dignity, confidence, and smiles to those who served." “Remember, don’t drown in the sea of transition. Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline.” #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteransSupport #DentalCareForVeterans #AdoptAVetDental #HelpingHeroes

Military Transition Success: Wendi Wray’s Journey & Tips for Women Veterans | VetSOS Podcast Nov 20, 2024

Show notes

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 unique challenges faced by service members, especially women, during this critical time.
Wendi discusses how she prepared emotionally, mentally, and financially for her transition and offers practical advice for others. She touches on the importance of seeking support, leveraging resources, and staying true to your personal and professional values. Wendi also dives into her work as a career coach and host of the Beyond the Military podcast, where she helps women veterans navigate life after service and build confidence in their new identities.
Key Highlights:
- Transition Preparation: How Wendi started preparing two years before leaving the military and why emotional and mental readiness is crucial.
- Leadership Lessons: The importance of leaders supporting service members during their transition period.
- Family First: Balancing career aspirations with family responsibilities.
- Empowering Women Veterans: Addressing unique challenges faced by women, from self-doubt to finding a supportive community.
- Practical Tips: Networking, aligning career goals with personal values, and exploring non-traditional career paths.
Featured Topics:
- Wendi’s journey from active duty to career coaching
- The significance of being honest about your bandwidth and priorities
- Why identifying as a military spouse or veteran can open doors in the job market
- Resources like returnship programs and veteran-specific pipelines
Check out Wendi’s Podcast: Beyond the Military – A safe space for women veterans to explore faith, family, mental health, and career development.
👉 Follow Wendi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendiwray/ 👉 Check out Wendi's Website: https://wendiwray.com/ 👉 Listen to Beyond the Military Podcast: https://wendiwray.com/podcast/
👉 Learn More About VetSOS Podcast: https://vetsospodcast.com
🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories and resources designed to help veterans and their families thrive in their next chapters.
#WomenVeterans #CareerAdvice #BeyondTheMilitaryPodcast #vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport

Transforming Veterans' Lives: Wounded Veterans Relief Fund's Dental Program Spotlight Nov 13, 2024

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🎙️ 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 helps veterans in Florida overcome critical dental challenges to improve their health, confidence, and quality of life.
💡 Topics Covered:
- The shocking gap in dental care for veterans—why only 15% qualify for VA dental benefits
- How WVRF bridges the gap with over 190 dental partners across Florida
- Tammy's personal connection to veterans and her passion for service
- Real-life transformations: before-and-after stories of veterans regaining their smiles
- The critical link between oral health and overall health, including heart disease and diabetes
- Step-by-step: How veterans can apply for assistance and what qualifies them for the program
- The organization's ambitious plans for expansion beyond Florida
- Ways businesses and individuals can support WVRF, including the "Adopt a Veteran" initiative
📊 Incredible Impact Stats:
- Over $823,000 in dental care provided to veterans year-to-date
- Partnered care value exceeds $1.8 million when undiscounted
🚨 Don’t Miss: The jaw-dropping stories of veterans who regained not only their smiles but also their confidence, health, and sense of belonging. Tammy also shares how WVRF’s advocacy helps veterans navigate complex VA systems to get the care they deserve.
💬 How You Can Help:
- Donate: Every dollar makes a difference in transforming a veteran's life
- Volunteer: Join as an ambassador to spread the word and build community support
- Connect: Know a dentist or specialist who can help? Spread the word about WVRF!
📢 Learn More & Get Involved:
Visit www.wvrf.org to explore their programs, donate, or volunteer. Together, we can make a tangible difference for those who served our country.
🎧 Listen Now & Subscribe!
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more heartfelt stories and impactful conversations. Let’s ensure no veteran is left behind!
🌟 Follow Us: Stay connected for more inspiring episodes and resources to support veterans in their transition journey.
#WVRF #DentalCare #LifeChangingSmiles #OralHealthMatters #vetsos #vetsospodcast #SupportOurVeterans #DentalCareForVeterans

Mastering Military Transition: Expert Tips, Resources, and Inspiring Stories from VetSOS Podcast Nov 06, 2024

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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, lessons, and opportunities of transitioning from military to civilian life. Kingsley Scott shares his journey of rising from the ashes, rebuilding his confidence through an internship, and ultimately becoming a director while launching his own initiative, Phoenix Solution Enterprise. Matthew Wee reflects on his perseverance during a COVID-era transition, the impact of organizations like Vets2Industry and Act Now Education, and his evolution from a wallflower to a Foreign Affairs Officer at the Department of State. The panel addresses essential questions: - How do you mentally and emotionally accept the transition process? - What are the most valuable resources for navigating the civilian world? - How does networking help you uncover new opportunities? With candid stories of trial and triumph, the conversation also emphasizes the importance of trusting the process, learning to embrace setbacks, and being kind to yourself along the way. The guests share practical advice for leveraging programs like Alfredo's Coffee House and American Corporate Partners, building connections, and carving a meaningful post-military path. Whether you're just starting your transition, contemplating a career shift, or supporting a veteran in your life, this episode is a must-listen. Packed with actionable advice, inspiring stories, and heartfelt wisdom, it will leave you motivated to make your dash count. 🎙️ Don’t miss this empowering episode! Subscribe to VET S.O.S. and join us as we continue to support and uplift the veteran community, one story at a time. https://militaryinfluencer.com/ #vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #VeteranResources #NetworkingForSuccess

Empowering Veterans Through Music: Operation Song and Jon Foti's Inspiring Mission Oct 30, 2024

Show notes

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 Grammy-nominated and chart-topping artists—to create meaningful music that tells their unique stories, aids in healing, and fosters a deeper understanding within the community.
John shares his personal journey, from serving as a U.S. Army combat aviator with the 101st Airborne Division to navigating a challenging medical transition due to Type 1 diabetes. He opens up about the mental and emotional hurdles of leaving the military and how he found renewed purpose in leading impactful organizations like Operation Song.
Learn how veterans and their families can write their own song at no cost, hear about the incredible team of songwriters supporting the program, and discover why storytelling through music is a vital tool for preserving history and building bridges of empathy.
🔗 Write Your Song for Free: https://www.operationsong.org/
🎵 Explore Veteran Songs: Listen on YouTube, the Operation Song app, and major streaming platforms.
Highlights in This Episode:
- John’s Story: His transition from military service to nonprofit leadership and his mission to honor veterans.
- Operation Song’s Mission: Empowering veterans and families to share their experiences through songwriting.
- The Songwriting Process: How veterans’ words and emotions are transformed into professional-quality music.
- Notable Stories: Inspiring examples of songs created through the program, including a proposal song and stories of recovery.
- How You Can Help: Ways to get involved as a songwriter, donor, or supporter.
📣 Don’t Miss Out: Whether you're a veteran seeking a creative outlet, a family member wanting to tell a story, or someone passionate about giving back, this episode is for you.
Support Operation Song: Donations and volunteers keep this life-changing program free for veterans and their families.
Follow VET S.O.S. Podcast:
🔔 Subscribe for more stories of resilience and community.
👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔗 Share this episode to spread the word!

#OperationSong #VeteranStories #HealingThroughMusic #vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitarySupport

Supporting Military Families Nationwide: Jon Jerome of H.E.R.O.E.S. Care Oct 23, 2024

Show notes

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 a difference.
Jon shares the story of H.E.R.O.E.S. Care, which has distributed thousands of care packages, cards, and letters and expanded into the H.E.R.O.E.S. Care Network in 2007. With 647 outposts in 25 states and over 3,300 trained volunteers, the network has saved 38 lives through its suicide prevention initiatives, with an incredible 14-minute crisis response time.
You’ll also hear about the Mission Depot in St. Louis, a one-stop resource center offering free supplies, budget classes, financial assistance, and mental health support to veterans. Jon shares a moving story of a Vietnam veteran who found renewed hope through their services.
Additionally, Jon introduces the cutting-edge Secure Hope software platform, designed to connect veterans with charitable resources more efficiently and bring the Mission Depot model to other states. This forward-thinking approach is setting the stage for nationwide impact.
In this episode, Jon discusses the challenges faced by National Guard and Reserve families, the importance of job fairs for veterans and their spouses, and how partners like Men’s Warehouse and Joseph A. Bank are making a difference by providing professional attire.
Packed with inspiring stories, innovative solutions, and actionable ways to support military families, this episode is one you won’t want to miss!
🌐 Learn More About H.E.R.O.E.S. Care: https://heroescare.org/
Call to Action:
✅ Donate new products or funds to support H.E.R.O.E.S. Care’s impactful programs.
✅ Volunteer or share their mission to help expand the Mission Depot model.
✅ Spread the word to raise awareness about the unique challenges military families face.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and resources for our veteran community. 🎙️💙 #vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranSupport #HeroesCare #MentalHealthAwareness #SupportOurTroops

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