VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Jose Velazquez on Mastering Military Transition & Digital Networking Oct 16, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Keith share an engaging conversation with Jose Velazquez, a 30-year Army veteran and founder of Velasquez Media Consulting. Jose dives into his journey of transitioning from the military during the COVID-19 pandemic, the hurdles he faced, and how he turned those challenges into opportunities to help others.
Jose’s expertise as a certified digital networking coach and his passion for supporting veterans, military spouses, and transitioning service members shine throughout the discussion. From practical LinkedIn tips to actionable networking strategies, this episode is packed with insights for anyone navigating the job market or seeking to build their professional brand.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ Transitioning during challenging times: Insights from Jose’s personal experience leaving the military during the pandemic.
✅ Why LinkedIn matters: How to leverage LinkedIn for job opportunities, networking, and personal branding.
✅ Certified Digital Networking Coach: How Jose became certified through Higher Military and the value of intentional, structured networking.
✅ Velasquez Media Consulting: The services Jose provides, including individual coaching, group workshops, and corporate training.
✅ Leader Transition Institute (LTI): The resources and support available, including weekly LinkedIn Live Audio sessions every Thursday at noon Eastern Time.
Jose also discusses the importance of mindset during transitions, the unique challenges faced by military spouses, and the need for a shift from a “we to me” focus during this pivotal time.
📌 Don’t Miss These Actionable Takeaways!
🔹 Practical tips to optimize your LinkedIn profile
🔹 Best practices for intentional networking
🔹 How to turn a job search into a structured, successful process
🔹 The benefits of digital networking certification for career growth
📆 Resources Mentioned:
🔗 Check out Velazquez Media Consulting: https://www.facebook.com/velazquezmediaconsulting/ 🎙️ LTI LinkedIn Live Audio Sessions: Every Thursday at 12 PM ET
🔗 Connect with Jose Velazquez via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josevelazquezjr/
💬 Join the Conversation:
What was your biggest takeaway from Jose’s journey and advice? Comment below, and let us know how networking has impacted your career!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help others in the veteran and military community access these incredible insights.

#DigitalNetworking #VelasquezMediaConsulting #Podcast #vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteranAdvocate #LinkedInTips #CareerDevelopment

From Homelessness to $3.8B in Veteran Benefits | Dr. Steven Crane's Veteran Roadmap Oct 09, 2024

Show notes

In this deeply moving episode, we meet Dr. Steven Crane, a Marine Corps veteran whose transformative journey from homelessness to becoming a thriving entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. As the co-founder of the Veteran Roadmap, Dr. Crane has dedicated his life to empowering veterans, helping secure over $3.8 billion in benefits and mentoring more than 2,500 veterans worldwide.
Dr. Crane opens up about the challenges he faced during his military transition, including battling uncertainty, emotional struggles, and financial hardships. He shares how these experiences fueled his passion for creating the Veteran Roadmap, a nonprofit organization offering free, comprehensive guidance to help veterans navigate their journey from homelessness to retirement. The Veteran Roadmap provides tools and resources focused on financial planning, mental health, and career development—prioritizing benefits as the first step to long-term success.
💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Dr. Crane’s personal story of resilience, from military service to overcoming homelessness.
- How the Veteran Roadmap helps veterans access life-changing resources, including financial education, mentorship, and career planning.
- The critical role of mental health support in easing the transition from military to civilian life.
- Practical advice for veterans on navigating the complexities of VA benefits, financial planning, and entrepreneurship.
📞 Get Involved:
- Learn more about the Veteran Roadmap and how to access its free services.
- Connect directly with Dr. Steven Crane to gain mentorship or guidance.
- Share this episode with fellow veterans and families who may benefit from these valuable insights and resources.
🎖️ A Message to Veterans: You are not alone. Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, facing financial uncertainty, or searching for a new purpose, this episode provides hope, actionable advice, and a roadmap to success.
💬 We’d Love to Hear From You: What was your biggest takeaway from Dr. Crane’s story? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more impactful content.
📢 Resources:
Visit the Veteran Roadmap website: https://www.veteranroadmap.org
Contact Dr. Steven Crane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-b-crane/
#VeteranRoadmap #DrStevenCrane #VeteranSuccess #Resilience #Entrepreneurship #vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #VeteransHelpingVeterans

Honoring Veterans: Mike Ware & Veterans Last Patrol | Inspiring Stories & How to Get Involved Oct 02, 2024

Show notes

Join us for an emotional and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast as we sit down with Mike Ware, a retired Air Force fighter pilot, airline captain, author, and motivational speaker, who has dedicated his post-military life to supporting veterans in hospice and senior living facilities through Veterans Last Patrol.
Mike shares the powerful mission of Veterans Last Patrol, an organization founded by Claude Schmid, which ensures that veterans are honored, supported, and never alone in their final journey. Through touching stories, Mike sheds light on their impactful initiatives:
✨ Annual Honor Ride – A moving event involving motorcycle and classic car enthusiasts who visit senior living facilities to celebrate and thank veterans.
✨ Honor Ceremonies – Personalized events where veterans are presented with shadow boxes, containing their medals, photos, and letters of appreciation from service organizations and Congress. These ceremonies often mark the first formal recognition many veterans have received for their service.
Mike also emphasizes the critical shortage of veteran volunteers in hospice programs and the importance of stepping up to provide companionship and gratitude to those who served our country.
Beyond his work with Veterans Last Patrol, Mike introduces Forever Young Veterans, a nonprofit that organizes healing trips for senior veterans, offering them a chance to reflect, heal, and share their stories.
Key Takeaways:
- How Veterans Last Patrol transforms end-of-life care for veterans.
- The emotional impact of honoring veterans through ceremonies and personal connections.
- The importance of capturing and sharing veterans' stories before it’s too late.
- How organizations like Forever Young Veterans offer hope and healing.
💬 Get Involved Today!
Visit Veterans Last Patrol to volunteer, donate, or start a local chapter. https://www.veteranlastpatrol.org/
Explore Forever Young Veterans to support their mission of healing for senior veterans.
📅 Action Items:
✔️ Help promote the Annual Honor Ride.
✔️ Consider volunteering or donating to Veterans Last Patrol.
✔️ Share this episode to raise awareness about the importance of supporting veterans in end-of-life care.
✔️ Invite Mike Ware back to discuss Forever Young Veterans in greater depth.
🙏 Thank you for supporting our veterans and ensuring their sacrifices are honored. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the VET S.O.S. Podcast for more inspiring stories and actionable insights!

#VeteransLastPatrol #ForeverYoungVeterans #HonorRide #MikeWare #MilitaryStories #EndOfLifeCare #vetsos #vetsospodcast #HonorOurHeroes #VeteranSupport

Beau Higgins on Oplign, Veteran Hiring, and the Travis Manion Foundation Sep 25, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sit down with Beau Higgins, a retired Marine Corps officer and current Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Arcadia Group. Beau takes us through his transition from a 25-year career in the Marine Corps to corporate leadership, including his impactful tenure at Amazon and his groundbreaking work with Oplign, a tool designed to bridge the gap between military and civilian careers.
Oplign serves as a cutting-edge Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) translator, helping veterans craft skills-based resumes tailored to civilian job markets. With its unique technology, Oplign matches veterans to roles at top-tier companies like Amazon, Boeing, and Wells Fargo. Beau breaks down how this tool simplifies the job search process and empowers veterans to present their unique skills in a way recruiters value.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Beau shares his deep connection to the Travis Manion Foundation. Having served alongside Travis Manion, Beau discusses the foundation’s mission to support Gold Star families and its efforts in character development for youth through programs like "Character Does Matter." He also shares his experiences as a race director for the 9/11 Heroes Run, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the veteran and civilian communities alike.
Key Topics Covered:
- Beau’s personal journey transitioning from the military to corporate leadership.
- Why early transition planning and networking are essential for success.
- The innovative role of Oplign in helping veterans translate their military experience into civilian job skills.
- Unique qualities veterans bring to the workplace, including resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities.
- How the Travis Manion Foundation makes a difference in supporting Gold Star families and fostering leadership in youth.
Actionable Insights:
- Start Early: Begin planning your transition months (or even years) before leaving the military.
- Network Effectively: Use the "50 cups of coffee" approach to build connections and learn about different industries.
- Leverage Tools: Use resources like Oplign to simplify resume building and job searching.
- Get Involved: Support initiatives like the Travis Manion Foundation to stay connected and make a meaningful impact.
Links and Resources:
💼 Explore Oplign: http://oplign.com/
🌟 Get Involved with the Travis Manion Foundation: https://www.travismanion.org/
🔗 Connect with Beau Higgins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauhiggins1/
🎥 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help spread the word and support the veteran community!

#Oplign #TravisManionFoundation #Leadership #Networking #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryTransition #VeteranHiring

Overcoming Military Transition & Mental Health Struggles | Deny Caballero on Security Halt! Podcast Sep 18, 2024

Show notes

In this deeply impactful episode of VET S.O.S. Podcast, host Keith and Eric welcome Deny Caballero, a retired Green Beret, mental health advocate, blogger, podcaster, and mentor. Deny shares his inspiring journey from serving as a Green Beret to becoming a mental health advocate for veterans and civilians alike. Throughout their conversation, Deny delves into the emotional and psychological challenges that come with transitioning out of the military, especially for those who served in elite units like the Green Berets.
Deny opens up about his personal struggles with mental health, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in seeking help. He shares his powerful story of recovery, supported by the Lower Ridge Treatment Center and a multidisciplinary team of health professionals who helped him through some of his darkest days. He explains how breaking down the stigma around mental health is essential in helping veterans and service members feel comfortable seeking the support they need.
Deny also introduces the concept of Operator Syndrome, a white paper study by Dr. Chris Free, which sheds light on the long-term effects of trauma experienced by military operators. He explains how understanding this syndrome helped him better grasp his own symptoms and the importance of a comprehensive, holistic approach to healing that addresses mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
One of the central themes of this episode is the importance of finding purpose after leaving the military. Deny talks about how many veterans, including himself, struggle to adjust to life after service and how discovering new passions and purpose is key to thriving post-military. He shares how his passion for mental health advocacy and podcasting has become a way to help others and make a meaningful impact in the lives of veterans.
Deny also emphasizes the significance of faith and community in his healing process, describing how reconnecting with his Catholic faith provided him with a sense of peace and purpose. He discusses the role of organizations like Advancing Warriors International, which offer faith-based support for veterans, and stresses the importance of building new support networks in the civilian world.
In addition to these personal insights, Deny advocates for veterans to pursue leadership roles in government and civic life. He passionately calls for more veterans to step up, run for office, and engage in meaningful advocacy to improve the country’s governance and policy. Deny firmly believes that veterans have a unique perspective and skill set that can drive positive change in the public sphere.
Action Items:
- Reach out to Deny Caballero via Instagram or email at sechalt@podcast.com to learn more about his work and the Security Halt movement. - Also check out his website https://www.securityhalt.com/
- Check out resources like the Lower Ridge Treatment Center and Advancing Warriors International for support and guidance.
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. Podcast for more episodes focusing on mental health, veteran support, and personal empowerment. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and share it to help spread the word about this important movement! #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranMentalHealth #MilitaryTransition #MentalHealthAdvocacy #VeteranSupport #SecurityHaltPodcast

Jeremy Stalnecker: Overcoming PTSD & Finding Purpose | Mighty Oaks Foundation Sep 11, 2024

Show notes

In this deeply moving episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Jeremy Stalnecker, CEO of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping military veterans and their families heal from combat-related trauma, including PTSD. Jeremy, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and earned the Navy Commendation Medal with combat valor, shares his personal journey of transformation from the military to ministry, and how he ultimately merged both experiences to lead the Mighty Oaks Foundation.
The Mighty Oaks Foundation offers a unique, week-long program that provides free, peer-to-peer support for veterans and first responders at five locations across the U.S. This program focuses on understanding trauma, its lasting impact, and how to move forward in a healthy and positive way with a strong foundation in faith. Jeremy discusses how the program uses a faith-based approach to trauma recovery, encouraging participants to reconnect with their purpose, faith, and a sense of community.
During the conversation, Jeremy highlights the importance of faith, community, and peer support in the healing journey. He reflects on how his own battle with anger and the emotional challenges of transitioning from military service led him to find hope through faith, and how Mighty Oaks is helping thousands of veterans each year experience similar healing.
Whether you're a veteran struggling with the scars of combat, a family member of a service member, or someone interested in learning more about this crucial mission, this episode is full of powerful insights. Jeremy’s story of redemption, perseverance, and faith will inspire you to find strength and purpose, no matter the challenges you face.
In this episode, we cover:
- Jeremy’s experience as a Marine in Operation Iraqi Freedom and his journey to becoming the CEO of Mighty Oaks Foundation.
- The Mighty Oaks Foundation's Legacy Program: a week-long, faith-based healing program for veterans and their families.
- The importance of peer-to-peer support and how Mighty Oaks creates a safe, understanding environment for healing.
- How the Mighty Oaks Foundation is helping veterans move forward in life and rediscover their purpose after military service.
- The role of faith in overcoming trauma and how Mighty Oaks uses Christ-centered support to foster long-term recovery.
- Jeremy’s personal journey of overcoming anger and emotional struggles, and how it led him to help others.
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about the Mighty Oaks Foundation and their programs: https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/
- VET S.O.S. podcast website: https://vetsospodcast.com
If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD or the challenges of transitioning from military life, don't hesitate to reach out to the Mighty Oaks Foundation or other veteran support organizations for help.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. VET S.O.S. is here to help you find strength, purpose, and hope. Make sure to subscribe and follow for more stories of resilience and healing from our brave veterans.
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteransSupport #PTSDRecovery #MightyOaksFoundation #FaithAndHealing #MilitaryTransition

Angel Alvarez on Soldier on a Mission: Veteran Transition Success Sep 04, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Angel Alvarez, a veteran coach, mentor, and founder of Soldier on a Mission, to discuss the essential tools and mindset veterans need to transition successfully to civilian life. Angel shares his incredible journey, including 21 years of service in the Army and 22 years in the U.S. Postal Service, where he experienced firsthand the challenges of transitioning. His organization, Soldier on a Mission, takes a faith-based approach to guide veterans through a 12-week program designed to help them dream big, set meaningful goals, and achieve balance in five critical areas: vocation, time, money, health, and relationships. Key topics covered in this episode: - The lack of resources many veterans face during the transition to civilian life. - Angel's personal story of feeling unprepared for life after military service. - How Soldier on a Mission helps veterans craft a clear vision and take actionable steps toward their goals. - The importance of starting the transition process early—even before leaving the military. - Support available for veterans who have already transitioned but need a path forward. Angel also opens up about the sacrifices he made during his career and the lessons he learned about prioritizing relationships, personal growth, and selfless service. Whether you’re just beginning your transition journey or have been out of the military for years, this episode provides invaluable advice and a lifeline to help you move forward with confidence. 🎯 Connect with Soldier on a Mission: 🌐 https://soldieronamission.com 📞 Call Angel’s business line for more information. 💡 Action Items for Veterans: - Reach out to Angel Alvarez and Soldier on a Mission for personalized guidance. - Engage with the program as early as possible during your transition. - Remember, it’s never too late to get back on track—Angel is here to help veterans at any stage. 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the VET S.O.S. Podcast for more inspiring stories, resources, and tools to navigate your transition successfully! #SoldierOnAMission #GoalSetting #PersonalGrowth #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranTransition #MilitarySupport #VeteranResources

Jack Tilley - Your Next Mission | Veteran Support, Transition Tips & Mental Health Awareness Aug 28, 2024

Show notes

In this insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we are honored to be joined by Jack Tilley, the 12th Sergeant Major of the Army. After an illustrious 36-year military career, Jack continues to serve veterans through his dedicated work with organizations like the American Freedom Foundation and his own podcast, "Your Next Mission." Jack sheds light on his post-military efforts to help veterans successfully transition into civilian life. He shares how the American Freedom Foundation has hosted numerous job fairs, directly helping over 6,000 veterans find meaningful employment. Jack also discusses the success of his podcast, which has grown to over 11,000 followers and achieved 8.9 million impressions in just 24 months—becoming a crucial resource for veterans and their families. Throughout the episode, Jack stresses the critical importance of preparing for the transition from military to civilian life as early as possible. He shares eye-opening statistics about the struggles veterans face post-service: 200,000 incarcerated veterans, 86,000 homeless veterans, and over 139,000 veteran suicides since 2001. Jack emphasizes the need for networking, mentorship, and mental health support in preventing these dire outcomes, urging veterans to stay connected and lean on each other for support. Jack also provides practical advice for veterans in transition, such as: - Starting preparations two years in advance, including paying off debts and networking. - Crafting a strong resume and reaching out to veteran-friendly companies. - Finding mentors who can offer guidance throughout the process. - The importance of recognition and receiving the appropriate awards when leaving the military. In this episode, Jack also shares his personal experiences organizing concerts with country music artists to raise funds for veterans, highlighting the challenges, rewards, and community-building aspects of these events. Key Takeaways: - The power of mentorship and networking for a successful transition. - The necessity of preparing for life after service well in advance. - The importance of veteran resources and staying informed about available support. - Understanding the dire need for mental health care and addressing the struggles faced by veterans, including homelessness and incarceration. This episode is a must-listen for veterans, their families, and anyone interested in supporting the veteran community. Action Items: - Reach out to Jack Tilley at SMATilley@yournextmission.org or call 844-424-1134 for feedback or to suggest topics for future episodes of "Your Next Mission." - Follow Jack Tilley and the Your Next Mission podcast on social media, particularly YouTube, to connect with the growing veteran community, access valuable resources, and spread positive content that supports our heroes (https://yournextmission.org/). Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode to help us reach more veterans in need of support and guidance. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who have served. #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteransSupport #YourNextMission #VeteranTransition #MentalHealthAwareness #SMA

Cheryl Cross on Military-to-Civilian Career Success | Salary Negotiation & Transition Tips Aug 21, 2024

Show notes

🌟 Navigating Military-to-Civilian Career Transitions with Cheryl Cross 🌟
In this engaging episode of VET S.O.S., Cheryl Cross, an accomplished HR professional and Workforce Development Councilwoman in Hawaii, joins us to share her expertise and passion for supporting veterans and military spouses through the often-challenging transition to civilian life.
Drawing from her extensive experience, Cheryl dives into the critical issues veterans face, including:
✅ Salary Negotiation: Cheryl’s innovative salary negotiation workshop at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam has empowered countless veterans to confidently advocate for fair compensation.
✅ Emotional and Psychological Challenges: Transitioning isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about navigating the loss of community and identity. Cheryl explains how relatable transition stories can make a world of difference.
✅ Military Spouse Employment: With a staggering 21% unemployment rate among military spouses, Cheryl highlights the urgent need for businesses to recognize and address this gap.
✅ Retaining Veterans in Hawaii: From high living costs to limited career opportunities, Cheryl discusses her efforts to incentivize veterans to build fulfilling lives in the Aloha State.
🚀 Looking Ahead: Cheryl also shares her ambitious future plans, including:
📖 Writing a book on salary negotiation, featuring real-life success stories and actionable strategies.
🎙️ Expanding her popular podcast, Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, to address the emotional and psychological aspects of transition alongside practical advice.
This episode is a must-watch for veterans, military spouses, and anyone passionate about supporting the military community. Cheryl’s candid insights, actionable advice, and inspiring stories will leave you better equipped to tackle the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.
🎧 Catch up on more episodes and subscribe to stay inspired and informed!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylcross/
#CareerAdvice #SalaryNegotiation #MilitarySpouseEmployment #WorkforceDevelopment #vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteransSupport

Transforming Veterans Lives Through Equine Therapy: Michael Hall’s Hold the Reins Aug 14, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we welcome Michael Hall, a Navy Chief Petty Officer with 19 years of service and the visionary behind Hold the Reins. This Virginia-based organization uses equine therapy to support military personnel, veterans, and their families as they navigate the unique challenges of service life and transition to civilian life.
Michael shares:
- His personal journey from military service to founding Hold the Reins.
- How equine therapy builds emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and resilience.
- The importance of addressing "operator syndrome" and preventing self-destructive tendencies.
- The role horses play in strengthening family dynamics and creating lasting emotional connections.
- Stories of profound transformation experienced by participants.
Whether you're a service member, veteran, family member, or supporter, this episode sheds light on the critical role of programs like Hold the Reins in fostering well-being and community.
How to Get Involved
🔗 Visit https://www.holdthereins.org
📧 Contact: contact@holdthereins.org
📱 Follow Hold the Reins on social media for updates and stories of impact.
Key Topics Covered
- Understanding the concept of "operator syndrome."
- How Hold the Reins works: sessions, process, and benefits.
- Creating a network of equine professionals to support veterans nationwide.
- Building emotional intelligence through interactions with horses.
📢 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support the mission of Hold the Reins and the VET S.O.S. Podcast.

#EquineTherapy #HoldTheReins #OperatorSyndrome #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #MentalHealthAwareness

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