VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Michael Anthony on Gratitude America: Veteran Support, Warrior Path & Families of the Fallen Aug 07, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we welcome Michael Anthony, the Executive Director of Gratitude America, as he shares the powerful ways his organization is making a difference in the lives of veterans and their families. Michael’s journey from a Publix executive to nonprofit leader reflects his deep dedication to service and his passion for fostering post-traumatic growth.
Gratitude America offers three life-changing programs:
✅ Military Support Retreats – Four-day retreats for veterans and their support persons, combining group sessions, equine therapy, and nature-based recreation to promote healing and connection.
✅ Warrior Path – A seven-day intensive program for veterans, centered on personal resilience and post-traumatic growth, with 90 days of follow-up support to reinforce progress.
✅ Families of the Fallen – A heartfelt program providing support and coping mechanisms to families grieving the loss of a service member, including deaths related to suicide.
Michael dives into the structure and impact of these programs, emphasizing their role in helping participants rebuild their lives and find strength after trauma. He also highlights the importance of collaboration with other organizations, such as Warriors Heart and the Avalon Action Alliance, to provide comprehensive and tailored support.
🎯 Key Takeaways:
- Gratitude America is a beacon of hope for veterans and families, offering specialized programs that promote healing and growth.
- The Families of the Fallen program addresses the unique needs of grieving families, with a significant event planned for September.
- Partnerships with organizations and insurance companies can amplify support and expand reach.
📢 How to Get Involved:
Michael encourages veterans and families to apply for Gratitude America's programs via their website. Whether you’re looking for support or seeking to collaborate, Gratitude America is here to help. https://gratitudeamerica.org/
💡 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and the transformative power of post-traumatic growth.
✅ Like, comment, and subscribe for more veteran-focused stories and solutions.

#GratitudeAmerica #PostTraumaticGrowth #MentalHealth #WarriorPath #FamiliesOfTheFallen #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryFamilies

Jeremy Wahlberg | Our Heroes Tour: Healing Veterans & First Responders Through Water Sports Jul 31, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Jeremy Wahlberg, a retired military veteran with 27 years of service and the founder of Our Heroes Tour, a nonprofit dedicated to providing healing, joy, and community for military personnel, first responders, and their families. Jeremy opens up about his challenging transition from military life during the pandemic, which led him to an unexpected career selling luxury boats, and how that journey sparked his passion for giving back.
Our Heroes Tour focuses on water sports, offering adaptive programs for those with physical limitations, including wake surfing and other unique activities. Jeremy shares heartwarming stories of the individuals and families they've impacted, like a retired fire chief and a double amputee who experienced the thrill of wake surfing for the first time. He also discusses their efforts to expand into year-round sports like snowboarding and their collaboration with organizations like Courage Kenny to better serve wheelchair-bound participants.
This episode dives deep into the mental health challenges faced by veterans and first responders, the importance of family support, and the life-changing impact of finding community and purpose through these programs. Jeremy also previews exciting upcoming events, like the Minnesota Wake Surf Championship fundraiser and charity concert, and the Waves of Valor video series, which brings to light the inspiring stories of the heroes they serve.
Connect with Our Heroes Tour:
Website: https://www.ourheroestour.org/
Email: info@our-heroes-tour.org
Phone: 651-775-4022
📌 Key Takeaways:
- Discover the challenges and opportunities in transitioning from military to civilian life.
- Learn how adaptive sports and community programs create lasting impact for heroes and their families.
- Find out how you can support or nominate a hero for the program.
🎥 Don’t Miss the Waves of Valor Video Series: Inspiring stories that showcase the strength, resilience, and humanity of our heroes
🎉 Action Items for Viewers:
- Support the Mission: Join the upcoming Minnesota Wake Surf Championship fundraiser and charity concert!
- Nominate a Hero: Share the story of a deserving military member or first responder.
- Get Involved: Volunteer, donate, or connect with Our Heroes Tour to make a difference.
💬 Engage with Us: Leave a comment, share this video, and subscribe to the VET S.O.S. Podcast for more stories that inspire, heal, and unite!

#FirstResponders #HealingThroughSports #MentalHealth #OurHeroesTour #WavesOfValor #VeteranPodcast #Inspiration #CommunitySupport #WakeSurfing #SnowboardingForHeroes #FamilyHealing #vetsos #vetsospodcast #Veterans

Revolutionizing Trauma Healing: Michael Cortina's 90% Success Method Jul 24, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode, we explore the transformative work of Michael Cortina, a trauma resolution expert and founder of the revolutionary Cortina Method. Designed to heal trauma without forcing individuals to relive their pain, this neuroscience-based approach has a 90% success rate and can often resolve trauma in just one session.
Michael’s innovative methodology is creating waves across various communities, from veterans to law enforcement, children, and beyond. With a vision to train an "army of healers" capable of impacting a million lives, Michael shares insights into his mission, the results his method has achieved, and how you can be part of this impactful journey.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ How the Cortina Method works: A brain-based approach rooted in neuroscience that optimizes how the brain processes trauma.
✅ Why this method is different: Healing trauma without reliving distressing memories drastically improves outcomes and reduces the risk of addiction or suicide.
✅ Incredible outcomes: Real-world results from programs like Project New Hope, where veterans have experienced improved sleep, reduced stress, and restored well-being.
✅ Who can benefit: The method is effective across all demographics, including children, teenagers, adults, and geriatrics.
✅ How you can help: Opportunities to support the Cortina Method through financial contributions, partnerships, and media outreach.
Upcoming Training Opportunities:
🗓️ October and February - Michael is offering comprehensive training programs for those interested in becoming certified in the Cortina Method. Don’t miss your chance to join this life-changing mission!
Support the Mission:
Michael emphasizes the importance of partnerships with not-for-profits, media exposure, and innovative collaboration to expand the reach of his work. Together, we can create sustainable change for individuals and communities in need.
📢 Connect with Michael Cortina and Learn More:
🌐 Website: https://michaelcortina.com/
📲 Follow Michael on Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-cortina-ptsd-expert/
🌟 Subscribe for More Inspiring Episodes: https://vetsospodcast.com
Don’t Miss This Inspiring Episode!
Discover how the Cortina Method is reshaping trauma healing and how you can help make a difference. Whether you're interested in training, collaboration, or simply learning about this revolutionary approach, this episode is packed with insights and actionable opportunities.
🛟 Remember: Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline and don’t drown in the sea of transition.

#TheCortinaMethod #TraumaResolution #MentalHealthInnovation #BrainBasedHealing #HealingCommunities #vetsos #vetsospodcast #TraumaHealing #VeteransSupport

Reggie Mills on Military Transition, Purpose, and The COMMIT Foundation Jul 17, 2024

Show notes

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Reggie Mills, a retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer and current Senior Director of Veteran Services at The COMMIT Foundation. Reggie takes us on a deeply personal journey, detailing his challenging transition from military service to civilian life—a period he candidly describes as a “dumpster fire.” From grappling with self-doubt and unemployment to discovering his passion for mentoring, Reggie’s story is both raw and uplifting.
Now at The COMMIT Foundation, Reggie is dedicated to helping fellow service members and veterans navigate their own transitions with purpose and clarity. The foundation’s unique approach goes beyond job placement, focusing instead on self-discovery, personal growth, and creating a meaningful post-military life. Through their signature online learning platform, "Pursue Your Purpose," and personalized coaching, The COMMIT Foundation empowers individuals to take a tactical pause, reflect on their values, and design a future that aligns with their passions and aspirations.
💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode:
- The emotional and logistical hurdles of transitioning out of the military.
- How The COMMIT Foundation supports veterans and their families through tailored resources.
- The importance of taking a tactical pause to focus on personal purpose rather than just landing a job.
- How The COMMIT Foundation fosters community through alumni engagement and meetups.
- Tips for service members considering their next steps, including insights into the application process.
🎯 Action Items:
- Apply to The COMMIT Foundation: Take the first step toward a purpose-driven transition.
- Share This Episode: Help spread the word to veterans and service members in need of support.
- Explore COMMIT’s Resources: Revisit their tools, including coaching, the "Pursue Your Purpose" platform, and community events, as you move through your own journey.
📌 Additional Resources:
More about The COMMIT Foundation: https://www.commitfoundation.org/
Book Recommendation: "Designing Your Life"
💬 Join the Conversation:
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below if this episode resonates with you, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more powerful stories of resilience, growth, and purpose.

#SelfDiscovery #PurposeDrivenLife #TheCOMMITFoundation #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition

Transition 30: Essential Tips for Military-to-Civilian Success with Todd Nelson Jul 10, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Shawn and Keith sit down with Todd Nelson, founder of Transition 30 and a financial advisor, to discuss how transitioning service members can confidently move into their post-military lives. Todd's personal journey, from serving as a minister to becoming a financial advisor, highlights the importance of trust, adaptability, and a passion for service.
What to Expect:
- Todd’s Journey: Discover how Todd’s career path led him to work with transitioning veterans and why trust and community are at the heart of his mission.
- Transition 30 Program: Learn how this innovative program connects transitioning service members with six Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in concise, actionable five-minute overviews. Topics include:
- Career transition strategies.
- Financial readiness and budgeting tips.
- Housing resources for veterans and their families.
- Financial Guidance: Todd offers advice on managing income changes, tax planning, and creating budgets to support long-term stability.
- Key Organizations: Gain insights into valuable veteran resources, including Hiring Our Heroes, SkillBridge, and USO, which provide career transition assistance and financial education.
- Future of Transition 30: Todd unveils plans for Transition 30 Extra, an expansion of the program offering in-depth discussions on critical transition topics.
Why Watch? Todd’s commitment to helping veterans navigate the complexities of transitioning is evident in every aspect of his work. Whether you’re a service member preparing for life after the military, a veteran, or someone looking to support the community, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.
📌 Key Resources & Links:
Transition 30: Contact Todd Nelson for a free 30-minute consultation to discuss financial planning and transition strategies.
Hiring Our Heroes: https://www.hiringourheroes.org/
SkillBridge Program: https://skillbridge.osd.mil/
USO Transition Services: https://www.uso.org/programs/uso-transition-program
Connect with Todd Nelson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-nelson-edward-jones/
Transition 30 Website:
https://www.youtube.com/@UC5J88xSMN9m6eySArDeLeMQ
👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow veterans, transitioning service members, and their families. Help spread the word about these incredible resources and Todd’s mission to empower the veteran community.
🎥 Follow the VET S.O.S. Podcast for more episodes featuring veteran leaders, expert advice, and success stories.

#Transition30 #FinancialReadiness #HiringOurHeroes #SkillBridge #USO #CareerTransition #vetsos #MilitaryTransition #VeteransSupport #VetSOSPodcast

Veteran Transition Stories & STAR Program | Chris Elder & Yogi Hernandez on Mil2Vet Jul 03, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Season Four of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! In this powerful episode, hosts Shawn Welsh and new co-host Keith Cassant are joined by Chris Elder and Yogi Hernandez, the co-hosts of the Mil2Vet podcast. Chris and Yogi share their unique and inspiring experiences of transitioning from military service to civilian life. They highlight the challenges and emotional toll that veterans face during their transitions, offering invaluable insights for others going through similar journeys.
Chris Elder’s Transition Story
Chris, a veteran and horse boarding facility manager, opens up about his medical retirement due to Meniere’s disease and the challenges he faced trying to secure medical care in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also discusses his transition from the military, how he navigated medical issues, and the importance of bringing resources to transitioning service members. His experience includes relocating to Washington State and spearheading efforts to bring educational programs and mentors to support veterans through the transition process.
Yogi Hernandez’s Transition Experience
Yogi, an active-duty Navy Chief Petty Officer, discusses his emotional and mental journey transitioning from Japan to San Diego. He opens up about the personal challenges he faced, including feelings of isolation and the lack of support he encountered after leaving his command role. Yogi emphasizes the importance of mentorship, the San Diego Veterans Coalition, and the critical role these resources played in helping him through his transition. Together with Chris, Yogi co-created the Mill2Vet podcast to help others who are going through similar transitions by sharing helpful resources and offering a sense of community.
The STAR Program and Advocacy for Better Support
In the latter part of the episode, Yogi and Chris introduce the STARR (Shore-Based Transition Assistance and Reintegration Readiness) program. This initiative was created in response to the difficulties they faced during their own transitions. Yogi explains how the STARR program aims to provide better guidance and support for veterans, especially those going through medical boards. They discuss the overwhelming amount of resources available to transitioning service members and the need for a more structured and less confusing process. Both Chris and Yogi stress the importance of advocating for change to ensure that veterans get the care and support they deserve.
🔗 Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Mill2Vet Podcast and Resources: https://mil2vet.com/
👉 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories of inspiration, resources, and support for the veteran community. Join us for future episodes as we continue to bring awareness and resources to veterans in need!
#Mil2Vet #TransitionSupport #MilitarytoCivilian #VeteranResources #Podcast #STARProgram #VeteransCare #VeteranMentorship #TransitionAssistance #vetsos #vetsospodcast #military #militarylife #transitioningmilitary #militarytransition #militaryspouses #militaryspouse #militaryfamily #militaryfamilies #militarycommunity #militarysupport #militaryveterans #vets #veterans #veteran #veterantransition #transitioningveterans #veteranservices #honorveterans #veteranswife #supportourveterans #veteransupport #veteransusa #veteranshelpingveterans #careerchange #transitioningservicemembers #linkedin #sof #coastguard #navy #spaceforce #marines #army #nationalguard #airforce #usmc #usmcr #us #usa #education #podcast #entertainment

Faith, Healing & Victory: Eric Brew's Mission with Warriors Set Free Jun 20, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn Welsh welcomes Eric Brew, who now serves as the Georgia Director for Warriors Set Free. Eric opens up about his transformative journey from co-host to fully dedicating himself to this life-changing ministry. Warriors Set Free is committed to helping veterans, active duty personnel, and first responders grow spiritually, heal from past traumas, and find victory in their daily battles through faith-based support.
Eric shares personal stories of transformation and sheds light on the ministry's mission to empower individuals by providing spiritual guidance, community support, and practical tools for navigating life's challenges. He explains the symbolism behind laying burdens at the foot of the cross and the profound impact this practice has had on his own life and relationships.
This episode also features exciting announcements about upcoming events, including the Warriors Battle—a transformative four-day men's retreat designed to foster a deeper connection with God—and an engaging fundraising golf tournament aimed at expanding the ministry's reach. Eric emphasizes the importance of sustainable growth, trusting God's timing, and building a strong, supportive community.
🌟 Stay connected with Warriors Set Free:
Website: https://warriorssetfree.org/
📅 Upcoming Events You Don't Want to Miss:
- Warriors Battle: A four-day men's retreat in Georgia focused on spiritual growth, healing, and brotherhood.
- Fundraising Golf Tournament: Stay tuned for details on this exciting event designed to support veterans and first responders.
📁 Action Items:
- Connect with Warriors Set Free to learn how you can get involved. - Attend an upcoming Warriors Battle event for a life-changing experience.
⚡ Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories, resources, and support for veterans and first responders!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #WarriorsSetFree #VeteranSupport #FaithHealing #EricBrew #FirstResponders #MilitaryVeterans #HealingThroughFaith #WarriorsBattle #SpiritualGrowth

Navigating Military to Civilian Life: Alfredo Torres' Transition Credit Score Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

Join hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant as they celebrate a major milestone—100 episodes and two incredible years of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! This special episode features Alfredo Torres, a 13-year Navy veteran and executive assistant at the U.S. Forest Service. Alfredo is well-known for his vibrant "Paisley Prince" persona and his impactful virtual community, Alfredo's Coffee House, where veterans come together to discuss transition challenges and important life topics.
Alfredo shares his powerful journey from military service to becoming a leader in the veteran transition space. He unveils his innovative concept of a "transition credit score", a tool designed to help veterans self-assess their readiness for civilian life, inspired by the familiar structure of personal credit scores. Alfredo explains how this concept can motivate veterans to start preparing early, set realistic goals, and track their progress throughout their transition.
Throughout the conversation, Alfredo, Shawn, and Keith dive into how veterans can navigate post-service life with humor, community, and actionable strategies. Alfredo also reflects on his love for professional wrestling (WWE) and how personal interests can help veterans connect and unwind.
Episode Highlights:
✅ Celebrating two years and 100 episodes of the VET S.O.S. Podcast ✅ Alfredo's dynamic military career and diverse roles after service, from radio personality to EMT to academic advisor ✅ Deep dive into the "transition credit score" concept and its impact on transition readiness ✅ The creation and purpose of Alfredo's Coffee House as a safe space for veterans ✅ How humor and storytelling help veterans tackle difficult topics ✅ Balancing personal passions, like wrestling, with professional growth
Action Items:
- Shoutout to Kingsley Scott for inspiring the innovative "transition credit score" concept.
- Exploring opportunities to collaborate with Alfredo on developing a formal, numerical scoring system to support veterans in transition.
This episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and heartfelt moments. If you're a veteran, active service member, or know someone navigating the transition to civilian life, this is a must-listen!
Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on future episodes!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #AlfredoTorres #VeteranCommunity #PodcastMilestone #TransitionCreditScore #VeteransHelpingVeterans #AlfredosCoffeeHouse #MilitaryToCivilian

Empowering Veterans: Kimberly Pickens on Recovery, Advocacy, and Community Impact Jun 04, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, Shawn Welsh and guest co-host Keith Cassant sit down with Kimberly Pickens, an OEF/OIF Air Force veteran and incoming member of the Nevada Air National Guard. Kimberly opens up about her personal journey transitioning from military service and how her experiences have fueled her passion for supporting veterans in Northern Nevada.
As the Outreach Specialist and Veteran Liaison at New Dawn Treatment Centers, Kimberly plays a critical role in helping veterans battling substance abuse, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). She discusses how New Dawn partners with the local VA to provide personalized treatment plans designed to address the root causes of these struggles, ensuring veterans receive comprehensive care and don't get lost in the system.
Kimberly also highlights her work with CAMO Court Reno, a specialized veterans' court program launched in 2018. With 98 successful graduates out of 200 participants, CAMO Court Reno helps veterans break free from cycles of addiction and legal issues through structured support, therapy, and mentorship. Kimberly shares inspiring success stories of how the program has transformed the lives of participants, fostering resilience and long-term recovery.
Another key focus of this episode is the Northern Nevada Veterans Block Party, a groundbreaking event designed to bridge service gaps for veterans by uniting community organizations. Despite severe weather on May 4, the event attracted 489 registrants and over 500 attendees, offering invaluable networking opportunities, resource sharing, and support services to veterans and their families.
Key Topics Covered:
- Kimberly's unique challenges transitioning from overseas military service to civilian life
- The mission and impact of New Dawn Treatment Centers in addressing mental health and substance abuse among veterans
- A closer look at CAMO Court Reno’s structured support system and its impressive success rate
- The creation, growth, and future vision of the Northern Nevada Veterans Block Party
- The critical role of mentorship, alumni engagement, and resource sharing in veteran recovery
Ways to Get Involved:
- Volunteer as a mentor for Camel Court Reno to support veterans on their recovery journey
- Participate or collaborate in future Northern Nevada Veterans Block Parties to strengthen veteran support networks
- Reach out to Kimberly for more information on veteran-focused programs and events
Connect with Kimberly Pickens:
📧 Email: Pickenskimberly@yahoo.com
🌍 CAMO Court - https://www.reno.gov/government/municipal-court/specialty-courts-and-programs 🌍 Northern Nevada Veteran Alliance - https://nnveteranalliance.org/
Tune in to VET S.O.S. on Wreaths Across America Radio and follow us for more empowering stories and resources for veterans!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspirational stories and essential resources for veterans!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteransSupport #MilitaryTransition #VeteransAdvocacy #CamoCourtReno #NewDawnTreatmentCenters #VeteranCommunity #NorthernNevadaVeteransBlockParty #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranResources #VeteranMentorship #VeteranSuccessStories

Empowering Veterans: David Tenenbaum on Heroes Network & Honor Media May 28, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Keith welcome David Tenenbaum, an Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Honor Media and Heroes Network. David opens up about the challenges he faced transitioning from military service to civilian life and how those experiences fueled his passion for creating meaningful support systems for veterans and their families.
David introduces the Heroes Network, a free professional networking platform designed exclusively for veterans, military spouses, and Gold Star families. This innovative platform connects users with volunteer advisors offering expert guidance on education, career transitions, entrepreneurship, and mental health. The platform also features a directory of veteran-friendly employers, job listings, and discussion forums to empower members on their personal and professional journeys.
David also dives into the mission of Honor Media, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free marketing and content creation services to veteran advocacy groups and nonprofits. By offering storytelling and media support, Honor Media helps amplify the voices of organizations working to improve veterans' lives.
Get a first look at the upcoming 10-part docuseries, "US Veterans," produced by Honor Media. This groundbreaking series aims to shift public perception by sharing diverse and inspiring stories of veterans from all walks of life.
Whether you’re a veteran navigating your transition, a military spouse seeking community, or a nonprofit looking for media support, this episode is packed with actionable insights and resources.
🔗 Learn More & Get Involved:
🌐 Heroes Network – Join today for free mentorship and resources: https://heroesnetwork.org
📧 Contact David Tenenbaum – For media collaboration: david@honormedia.org
🎯 Action Items:
✅ Veterans & Military Families – Sign up for free on Heroes Network to access mentors, resources, and job opportunities: https://HeroesNetwork.org
✅ Veteran Nonprofits & VSOs – Need marketing or media support? Reach out to Honor Media:
https://www.honormedia.org/
✅ Support Veteran Stories – Stay tuned for the "US Veterans" Docuseries to hear impactful stories from the veteran community.
👍 Like this video if you’re inspired by David’s mission!
🔔 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more empowering veteran stories and support resources.
💬 Comment below with your thoughts or questions about Heroes Network and how it can support you!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #USVeterans #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranEntrepreneur #VeteranNonprofits #VeteranSupport #HeroesNetwork #HonorMedia #MilitaryTransition #VeteranStories #USVeteransDocuseries #MilitarySpouses #GoldStarFamilies #VeteranAdvocacy

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