VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Master Your Military Transition: Resume & Job Search Strategies with Marisol Maloney May 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, Navy veteran and intelligence professional Marisol Maloney shares her inspiring journey from military service to launching her own consulting business, Secret Squirrel Consulting. Marisol dives deep into the challenges and strategies of transitioning from the military, emphasizing the importance of tailoring resumes, leveraging LinkedIn, and preparing early for career shifts. She candidly discusses the emotional and logistical hurdles she faced, including managing family dynamics during her transition and overcoming imposter syndrome.
Learn how Marisol secured two job offers within a week by strategically applying to roles and networking effectively. Discover how she balanced part-time and full-time positions while managing family responsibilities and how these experiences inspired her to help others transition successfully. Marisol also shares practical advice on how to craft standout resumes, build a transition binder, and research salary expectations to align career goals with financial needs.
Whether you're currently serving, a veteran preparing to transition, or supporting a loved one through this process, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you succeed in your civilian career.
✅ Topics Covered:
- Marisol's transition from the Navy to entrepreneurship
- Strategic job application approaches that led to multiple offers
- The power of LinkedIn networking for career growth
- Resume writing tips specifically for veterans transitioning to civilian roles
- Managing expectations and securing necessary certifications for civilian employment
- Balancing family life and career goals during transition
- Services offered by Secret Squirrel Consulting to support veterans
👥 Connect with Marisol Maloney:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisol-maloney/
📊 Resources Mentioned:
PayScale: https://www.payscale.com/
Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/
Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more valuable insights from veterans and industry experts!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #ResumeWritingTips #LinkedInNetworking #EntrepreneurMindset #MilitaryToCivilian #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSuccess #ResumeWriting #LinkedInTips #CareerTransition #VeteranSupport #Entrepreneurship #SecretSquirrelConsulting

Empowering Veterans: Steve Janke's Semper Forward Mission to Support Military Families May 14, 2024

Show notes

In this impactful episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, host Shawn and Keith engage in a compelling conversation with Marine veteran and founder of Semper Forward Mission Wisconsin, Steve Janke. Steve opens up about his unique transition from active military duty to managing his family's dairy farm and eventually entering the world of politics and government service. He sheds light on the obstacles service members face when reintegrating into civilian life and stresses the critical importance of networking and effectively communicating one’s value proposition.
Steve dives deep into how Semper Forward bridges the gap for military families by connecting them with vital resources for employment, housing, education, and fostering community connections. To date, Semper Forward has empowered over 2,000 military families, with 192 successfully relocating to Wisconsin, exemplifying the organization’s significant impact. Steve underscores the value of building authentic relationships and the power of strategic networking to create lasting support systems for veterans.
Key Topics:
- Steve Janke’s personal journey from military service to civilian success
- The inspiration and founding story of Semper Forward Mission Wisconsin
- Strategies for veterans to articulate their value and harness networking opportunities
- Semper Forward’s strategic partnerships with the National Association of REALTORS, local school districts, economic development communities, and veteran service organizations
- Future initiatives of the Semper Forward Foundation, including nonprofit support and corporate partnerships
Action Items:
- Submit the articles of incorporation for the Semper Forward Foundation.
- Reach out to Steve Janke via the Semper Forward website to learn more or participate in building state-level programs for veterans.
Learn more about Semper Forward: https://semperforward.com/
If you found this episode inspiring, don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories and resources designed to empower our veteran community!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VeteranResources #NetworkingForSuccess #VeteranEmpowerment #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #SemperForward #SteveJanke #MilitarySupport #VeteranResources #Networking #MissionWisconsin #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranSuccess

Mastering Military to Civilian Transition: Annie Brock’s Leader Transition Institute May 07, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant welcome Annie Brock, President and CEO of the Leader Transition Institute (LTI). Annie shares her inspiring journey from an enlisted soldier to a medevac helicopter pilot and military spouse, and how her personal challenges led her to create LTI—a life-changing program that helps service members, veterans, and military spouses transition successfully to civilian life. 💼 Inside This Episode: - Annie's military career and transition experiences - Challenges faced by military spouses in employment and integration - Overview of LTI's free, four-day intensive program on personal growth, communication, and financial planning - How LTI uses tools like DISC assessments, personal purpose statements, and therapeutic painting sessions to support transitions - Success stories from veterans and spouses who have transformed their lives through LTI 🔗 Learn More & Get Involved: 📧 Contact Annie Brock: admin@leadertransitioninstitute.org 🌐 Leader Transition Institute: https://leadertransitioninstitute.org/ 🖌️ Join LTI’s Quarterly Painting Sessions 📢 Action Items: ✔️ Share this episode to spread the word about LTI’s free programs! ✔️ Get involved with LTI’s supportive community. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes: Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for stories and resources that empower veterans and military families through life’s transitions. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations! #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranTransition #MilitarySpouseSupport #LeaderTransitionInstitute #VeteranEmpowerment #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranResources #MilitaryFamily #VeteranSupport #MilitaryCareerTransition

Empowering Veterans: Launching Automotive Careers with Ding King Apr 30, 2024

Show notes

Join us for Season 3, Episode 15 of the VET S.O.S. podcast as we welcome Blake Sudeck and Angel Lotti from the Ding King Training Institute! In this insightful episode, Blake, the Vice President of Ding King, and Angel, a U.S. Army veteran and proud graduate of the program, share how the institute empowers transitioning service members and veterans to build successful, sustainable careers in the automotive reconditioning industry.
Blake highlights the family-oriented approach of Ding King and its comprehensive hands-on training programs, including paintless dent repair, auto detailing, window tinting, wheel and rim repair, interior repair, and windshield repair. Angel opens up about his own transition from military service, the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how he successfully utilized his VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) benefits to complete all 10 specialized courses at the institute.
Discover how the Ding King Training Institute stands out with its job placement guarantees, direct partnerships with leading companies like Fleet Reconditioning Services, and a supportive network that helps veterans start their own businesses or secure stable employment. Blake and Angel also dive into exciting future plans to expand Ding King's reach, particularly into the New York area, aiming to support even more veterans and their families.
Hear inspiring success stories of veterans like Will Met, a Marine Corps veteran who launched a thriving business in Illinois, and Braxton Parker, a Navy veteran who started a successful hail repair business in Texas. Learn how Ding King's programs not only teach valuable skills but also foster personal growth, entrepreneurship, and long-term career development.
Don't miss this powerful and motivational conversation about transforming lives through skilled trades and veteran entrepreneurship!
📍 Learn more about the Ding King Training Institute: https://thedingking.com/ 📅 Follow VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #AutomotiveCareers #CareerTraining #VeteranSupport #DingKing #VeteranEntrepreneurs #MilitaryTransition #SkilledTrades #AutomotiveTraining #VeteranSuccessStories #PaintlessDentRepair #VeteranOwnedBusiness

Bill Kieffer on Veteran Career Success & Mental Health Apr 23, 2024

Show notes

In this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant sit down with Bill Kieffer, an Army veteran with over 23 years of professional HR experience and the President of Kieffer & Associates Limited. Bill shares his deep knowledge and personal experiences navigating the complex path from military service to a successful civilian career.
Bill introduces his latest book, Veteran Career Journey: More Insights from the Employer Side of the Desk, a follow-up to his first book, designed to provide veterans with practical tools and strategies for not only transitioning but also thriving in the civilian workforce. Drawing from his extensive HR background, Bill sheds light on what employers are looking for and how veterans can align their military skills with civilian business needs.
But Bill’s commitment doesn’t stop at writing. He also discusses the launch of the Veteran Career Journey nonprofit, a mission-driven organization dedicated to bridging the gap between veterans and employers. The nonprofit aims to reduce veteran suicide by offering critical transition support, training, and resources. With a goal to raise $120,000 in its first year, this initiative is focused on making a real difference in the lives of transitioning service members and their families.
🔎 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Bill’s Personal Transition Story: The challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and how those experiences shaped his mission to help other veterans.
- Employer Expectations: How understanding the “employer side of the desk” can give veterans a competitive edge in the civilian job market.
- Practical Transition Strategies: Actionable advice from Bill’s books on networking, integrating into civilian business cultures, and overcoming common transition obstacles.
- Veteran Career Journey Nonprofit: How this organization is filling critical gaps in veteran support and the tangible ways it’s working to prevent veteran suicide.
- Training Programs: Details about the nonprofit’s in-person and online classes designed to empower veterans and their families for long-term success.
📚 Bill Kieffer’s Books:
- Veteran Career Journey: 151 Insights to Help You Transition from Military to Civilian – A hip-pocket guide packed with quick, actionable insights. - Military Career Transition: Insights from the Employer Side of the Desk - An invaluable collection of over 150 insights, observations, recurring topics of discussion, and points of concern, gathered from numerous conversations, engagements, and interactions with transitioning service members, veterans, employers and many others.
- Veteran Career Journey: More Insights from the Employer Side of the Desk – Focuses on the post-transition phase, helping veterans integrate and thrive in civilian roles with over 60 real-life stories and a business operations framework.
🚀 Get Involved & Make an Impact:
Donate to the Veteran Career Journey nonprofit and help fund programs that support veteran transitions
Purchase Bill’s Books on Amazon and equip yourself or a veteran you know with essential tools for success → https://www.amazon.com/Veteran-Career-Journey-Insights-Employer/dp/1737371421/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3LmgX0SajnSHVQZCAYwlujya9ilbkAgI8NO0P480zq4.RS5guQkYz5KZtvYCWi9Q3xPRxQmiCERgnlVdvBQqnb0&qid=1712509883&sr=1-1
Connect with Bill Kieffer on LinkedIn to learn more and get involved → [Insert LinkedIn Link] Learn more about Bill Kieffer's work → https://kieffer-associates.com/
Thank you for tuning in to VET S.O.S.—where we help veterans survive, overcome, and succeed!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryToCivilian #EndVeteranSuicide #CareerTransition #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VetSOS #BillKieffer #VeteranCareerJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranNonprofit #VeteranResources #TransitionSuccess

Empowering Veterans: Kentucky Valor’s Pathways to Career Success Apr 16, 2024

Show notes

Join us for Season 3, Episode 13 of VET S.O.S. as we welcome Molly Bode, Executive Director of Kentucky Valor! Molly shares how Kentucky Valor, an initiative of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation, is breaking down barriers for veterans and their families by providing accelerated occupational licensure pathways and career opportunities in Kentucky.
In this episode, Molly dives deep into the program's 44 accelerated pathways across 55 categories, covering over 180 military occupations in high-demand fields such as healthcare, education, and skilled trades. She highlights the success of the Valor pilot program, which has streamlined the transition process for veterans by recognizing their military training and experience for civilian licensure. Molly also discusses Kentucky Valor's ambitious expansion plans, including potential overseas initiatives to support service members stationed abroad and the development of a cutting-edge custom portal that will allow veterans and military spouses to independently search for job opportunities and licensure pathways.
Discover how Kentucky Valor supports veterans and military spouses with personalized career guidance, advocacy, and licensure support, helping them transition smoothly into fulfilling civilian careers. Learn about the dedicated team behind the mission—including Shannon Broadbeck (Case Manager) and Nikki Stewart (Workforce Development Manager)—and current opportunities to join their growing efforts as they search for a passionate Recruitment Specialist.
Action Items:
- Visit https://kyvalor.com/ to explore licensure pathways and career opportunities tailored for veterans and military families.
- Follow Kentucky Valor on social media for real-time updates on new initiatives, partnerships, and expansion efforts.
- Stay tuned for the launch of Kentucky Valor's innovative custom portal for self-guided job searches and licensure exploration.
Don't miss this impactful conversation filled with insights and resources designed to empower veterans and their families!
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and valuable resources for veterans and their families.
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #KentuckyValor #VeteranCareers #MilitaryTransition #OccupationalLicensure #VeteranSupport #CareerPathways #VeteranResources #MilitarySpouseSupport #CareerDevelopment

Transforming Military Transitions & Empowering Veterans with Nila Thompson Apr 09, 2024

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant welcome Nila Thompson, Chief of Staff at Talent Ascend. Nila shares her powerful and deeply personal journey as a military spouse navigating her husband Bruce's transition out of the military. She candidly discusses the emotional and practical challenges they faced, highlighting the importance of honest communication, proactive decision-making, and strategic financial planning—including how they successfully became debt-free before retirement. Nila also reflects on the challenges military children face when aging out of military benefits and passionately advocates for more comprehensive support and resources for these young individuals.
Nila introduces Talent Ascend's groundbreaking skills-based hiring platform, designed to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers by connecting candidates directly with hiring managers—eliminating the traditional resume barrier. She elaborates on how the platform empowers individuals to showcase their skills and experiences, creating opportunities for meaningful employment.
Additionally, Nila highlights Talent Ascend's impactful nonprofit divisions—Veterans Ascend, Ability Ascend, and Mission to Ascend. Each division is dedicated to uplifting underserved communities, including veterans, individuals with disabilities, and previously incarcerated individuals, by providing them with the tools and support needed to achieve career success.
Discover how Talent Ascend is revolutionizing career development and how Nila's advocacy is driving change for military families and underserved communities alike. This episode is packed with actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and empowering insights for anyone navigating transition or seeking to support those who are.
✅ Connect with Nila Thompson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nilathompson/
📚 Learn more about Talent Ascend: https://talentsascend.com/
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and valuable resources!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #FinancialFreedom #CareerGrowth #EmpowerUnderserved #MilitarySpouseStrong #VeteranEmployment #MilitaryTransition #VeteransSupport #TalentAscend #FinancialPlanning #MilitaryFamilies #Empowerment #CareerDevelopment #MilitarySpouseSupport #SkillsBasedHiring

Kristen Christy on Resilience, Suicide Prevention & Veteran Support Apr 02, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful and inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Kristen Christy, co-creator of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and America's resilience trainer. Kristen courageously shares her deeply personal journey growing up in a dedicated Air Force family, navigating the challenges of military life, and overcoming the tragic loss of her husband to suicide in 2008. This life-altering experience ignited Kristen's passion for mental health advocacy and suicide prevention.
Kristen offers a behind-the-scenes look into the creation and launch of the 988 Lifeline, a critical resource that went national in July 2022. Designed to provide accessible mental health support, the lifeline experienced a remarkable 35% increase in calls and a staggering 1,000% surge in text messages within its first year. Kristen discusses the importance of culturally competent care, especially for veterans and military families, and how the "Ask, Care, Escort" approach can be a life-saving intervention.
Additionally, Kristen introduces the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation, which she co-founded in 2019. This innovative nonprofit organization is dedicated to building a supportive village in Colorado Springs that offers comprehensive vocational training and fosters a strong sense of community for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Kristen also shares the significance of the foundation's helicopter, tail number 39880, as a symbol of resilience and hope.
Throughout the episode, Kristen provides actionable insights on how resilience can be cultivated, the power of community support, and the vital need to openly discuss mental health and suicide prevention.
✨ Key Topics:
- Kristen's personal journey growing up in a military family and overcoming adversity
- Coping with the loss of her husband and becoming a Master Resilience Trainer
- The inspiration, development, and nationwide impact of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- The mission and growth of the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation
- Implementing the "Ask, Care, Escort" strategy for suicide prevention
- How to support veterans through vocational training and community involvement
👉 Connect with Kristen Christy: Website: https://www.kristenchristycares.com Call: 620-304-HOPE (4673)
📊 Action Items:
- Share and promote the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to raise awareness.
- Volunteer or contribute to the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation.
- Reach out to Kristen Christy for support, resources, and collaboration opportunities.
🎥 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and resources from VET S.O.S.!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #EndTheStigma #VeteranMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #988Lifeline #VeteranSupport #Resilience #KristenChristy #SuicidePrevention #MilitaryFamily #CommunitySupport

Empowering Veterans & Military Spouses: Denise Lewis on Vet Jobs & Career Support Mar 19, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Denise Lewis, the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility for Corporate America. Denise shares her personal journey and shines a spotlight on the life-changing work of Vet Jobs and Military Spouse Jobs—two leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping veterans, military spouses, and military-affiliated individuals successfully transition into meaningful careers.
Denise discusses how these organizations provide no-cost employment readiness, career counseling, and job placement services, connecting candidates with a network of over 3,000 employer recruiters. Backed by funders like the Call of Duty Endowment, these programs offer comprehensive support through personalized career assessments, upskilling opportunities, and training platforms designed to empower military families.
🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
✔️ The origins and mission of Vet Jobs and Military Spouse Jobs, founded by Admiral and Mrs. Kleppel
✔️ How the organizations provide tailored services to veterans, military spouses, and underserved groups like survivors of suicide and divorced military spouses
✔️ Strategies to combat ageism in hiring and how to support military spouses navigating career transitions
✔️ Why employers should hire military-affiliated talent and how partnerships with Vet Jobs and Military Spouse Jobs create diverse, reliable workforces
✔️ Details on the upcoming Employer Guard and Reserve Summit in Washington, DC—a must-attend event for employers supporting the military community
✔️ The economic impact of hiring older workers and how it benefits organizations in today’s workforce
📅 Action Steps to Get Involved:
🔗 Register for the Employer Guard and Reserve Summit: www.employguardreserve.com
🔗 Connect with Denise Lewis on LinkedIn to explore partnerships or funding opportunities for military spouse programs
🔗 Check out both programs at: https://vetjobs.org/ & https://militaryspousejobs.org/
💬 Join the Conversation:
Have thoughts or questions about veteran employment and military spouse support? Drop a comment below and let us know how you're making a difference!
🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to stay updated on more inspiring stories and actionable resources from VET S.O.S.! #vetsos #vetsospodcast #DiversityAndInclusion #HireMilitary #EmploymentOpportunities #VeteranEmployment #MilitarySpouseJobs #VetJobs #MilitaryTransition #CareerSupport #MilitaryFamilies #DiversityInWorkforce #VeteranSuccess #EmploymentResources #VeteranSupport #MilitaryCommunity

Empowering Veterans: Jordana Megonigal's Guide to Purposeful Transition Mar 05, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Jordana Megonigal, CEO of Recon Network. Jordana shares her inspiring journey from a successful marketing career to becoming CEO of Recon Network, driven by her passion for supporting veterans and their families. She explains how her grandfather's experience as an Iwo Jima Marine influenced her understanding of veterans' unique challenges and motivated her to address the often-overlooked emotional and psychological aspects of military transition.
Recon Network is revolutionizing veteran support by offering personalized transition coaching with certified career and life coaches, fostering community through supportive cohort groups, and hosting impactful events like the Vet Summit. Jordana emphasizes the importance of addressing the full hierarchy of needs—from securing basic necessities to finding purpose and fulfillment in civilian life.
Gain exclusive insights into the upcoming Vet Summit on September 12-13 in upstate South Carolina, featuring dynamic speakers, hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, and a special 1940s-style fundraiser designed to bring the veteran community together. This hybrid event offers both in-person and virtual options, making it accessible to veterans nationwide.
Jordana also discusses actionable strategies for veterans to rediscover their purpose, manage emotional challenges, and align their careers with their values. Whether you're a veteran, military spouse, or supporter of the veteran community, this episode offers valuable resources and inspiration for navigating life's transitions.
Action Items:
📍 Attend the Vet Summit event on September 12-13 in upstate South Carolina.
👤 Connect with Recon Network on LinkedIn for weekly updates and resources.
📅 Schedule a transition check-in via Recon Network's website.
Connect with Recon Network:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-recon-network/posts/?feedView=all
Website: https://recon.vet/
Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories and valuable resources!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryCommunity #VeteranResources #LifeAfterService #VeteranTransition #ReconNetwork #VetSummit #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #JordanaMegonigal

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