VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

From Marine to CEO: William Chesnutt’s 3P Strategy for Veteran Business Success Dec 05, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome William Chesnutt, Marine Corps veteran and the visionary founder and CEO of Strategic Development Group LLC. William opens up about his transition from military service in 2021 to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He dives deep into how he leveraged his 3P Business Framework (People, Process, Performance) to help veterans and aspiring business owners create sustainable, high-performing businesses.
William also shares insights from his book, "Your Strategy, Your Success," a comprehensive guide to strategic planning that bridges the gap between military experience and civilian entrepreneurship. Learn how he balances working as a government contractor with building his business and supporting the veteran community.
Key Highlights:
🔹 Strategic Planning for Success: Discover how William's 3P Framework empowers veterans to turn their ideas into thriving businesses.
🔹 Strategic U – Empowering Future Entrepreneurs: Learn about his vision for Strategic U, an innovative online learning academy designed to provide accessible, accredited business education for all.
🔹 Veteran-Focused Coaching: Hear how William offers personalized business coaching and compliance support for veterans navigating the entrepreneurial world.
🔹 Community Impact: William is passionate about giving back—donating 25% of book profits to Vets to Industry, helping veterans transition smoothly into civilian careers.
🔹 Collaboration with Elmore County: William is working with Elmore County to introduce high school students to entrepreneurship and business education.
Action Steps for Listeners:
✅ Connect with William Chesnutt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wschesnutt/ ✅ Check out StrategicU here: https://www.strategicu.co/
✅ Sign up as a mentor with American Corporate Partners (ACP): Reach out to Leslie Coffey to make an impact.
✅ Grab Your Copy of William’s Book: Your Strategy, Your Success https://www.amazon.com/Your-Strategy-Success-William-Chesnutt/dp/B0C9L228K1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RW1TA9R5R6UJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3y2yKmosLFHm133NxH7o_8Uf_-W7op1JgmxVpoCqbA46g_kMARHDfWGqN31jj8IUPBNkel5WDTU2nPjEz8tS_A6A7_LHG6mmBhLk6wpOyxFukZ90PPw9QgnEnixgmgsPf6RPR9R7yfB1vPUtx2O_7JQ6K8VPOUIGqckFngUQRCCZU1UEmj0EHy5S8tjIs2qXRwG6IdnQL7uJ5dH4DFlfY591W5SkE7Rc6-68iWTI4tM.e4bXfoO20Ih7UYHPD_X2NSxHh9VFCupiGm04YD9T6OQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=william+chesnutt&qid=1736798704&sprefix=william+chesnutt%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-1
✅ Support Vets to Industry: Learn how you can contribute https://vets2industry.org/donate/
💡 Want to start your own business? Let William's journey inspire you to take the first step!
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring stories, resources, and actionable advice for veterans and military families!
👍 Like, comment, and share this episode to support veteran entrepreneurs and help others find this valuable content.
#VETSOS #WilliamChesnutt #VeteranEntrepreneur #StrategicDevelopmentGroup #3PBusinessFramework #VeteranBusinessSuccess #VeteranTransition #MilitaryToEntrepreneur #VeteranSupport #VETS2INDUSTRY #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessStrategy #VETSOSPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

How Stacey Gordon Empowers Veterans to Succeed | Life Skills & Transition Coaching Nov 28, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew sit down with Stacey Gordon, a dedicated veteran advocate and life skills educator. Stacey shares her inspiring journey transitioning from a New Jersey public school teacher to a passionate military transition coach. Her personal experiences during 9/11, her mother’s brain aneurysm, and her grandmother’s battle with breast cancer fueled her commitment to helping veterans and their families successfully navigate life after military service.
Stacey introduces her company, Strategy to Success, a dynamic platform offering life skills education through tailored workshops, interactive worksheets, and virtual coaching. Her program focuses on critical areas like goal setting, time management, self-doubt management, and building strong support networks—essential tools for veterans transitioning to civilian life.
She highlights the profound impact of mentorship from community leaders, including Eric Brew, and how these relationships encouraged her to launch her own business to support veterans. Stacey's approach emphasizes practical solutions that empower individuals to overcome personal and professional challenges.
Looking ahead, Stacey shares her vision to expand Strategy to Success across diverse sectors, including corporate, higher education, nonprofits, and government agencies—ensuring that veterans and their families have access to the life skills needed for long-term success.
🎯 Key Takeaways:
- How Stacey transformed personal adversity into a mission to serve veterans
- The importance of mentorship and building a reliable support network
- Actionable strategies for mastering goal setting and time management
- How Strategy to Success is making an impact in the veteran community
🔗 Connect with Stacey Gordon:
📧 Email: Stacey@CSpromos.com
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-m-gordon-9772b8120/
📌 Action Items:
✅ Connect with Stacey on LinkedIn to learn more about her work
✅ Email Stacey to discuss how Strategy to Success can support your transition
✅ Subscribe for more inspiring stories and veteran resources
If you found this episode inspiring, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to VET S.O.S. for more incredible stories from veterans and advocates making a difference!
🔔 Don’t forget to turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #LifeSkills #VeteranAdvocate #StrategyToSuccess #VETSOS #MentalHealthAwareness #GoalSetting #MilitaryCommunity #VeteranEmpowerment #ResilienceBuilding

From Soldier to CEO: Justin Pearson's Guide to Veteran Success Nov 21, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew sit down with Justin Pearson, a two-time founder and CEO of Mission Box Solutions. Justin opens up about his 20-year military career in the Airborne Infantry and US Army Recruiting Command and shares his deeply personal transition story. Drawing parallels between a near-drowning experience during a whitewater rafting trip and the challenges veterans face during transition, Justin emphasizes the critical need for support networks, mentorship, and proactive planning.
Mission Box Solutions, a CVE-certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), specializes in staffing and recruiting for government and healthcare sectors, focusing on roles that require cleared backgrounds. The company is dedicated to empowering veterans and military spouses by providing access to high-demand careers in technology, cybersecurity, data science, and engineering. Justin also highlights his entrepreneurial journey with Proper Patriot, an American-made patriotic apparel and coffee company supporting veteran-owned businesses and fostering a strong sense of community among veterans and first responders.
In this episode, you'll learn about:
- Justin Pearson's military background and the pivotal moments that shaped his transition journey
- The importance of building a supportive network, seeking mentorship, and staying organized with daily and weekly plans
- How Mission Box Solutions bridges the gap between veterans and high-demand career opportunities in government and healthcare sectors
- The story behind Proper Patriot and its role in supporting veteran-owned businesses and law enforcement communities
- Practical advice and actionable steps for veterans navigating their transition to civilian life
- Inspiring stories of resilience, including how Justin helped a Marine veteran during the Minneapolis riots
Action Items:
- Connect with Justin Pearson on LinkedIn to explore opportunities and mentorship.
- Visit Mission Box Solutions (https://www.missionboxsolutions.com/) for veteran-focused staffing and career resources.
- Support veteran-owned businesses by shopping at Proper Patriot (https://www.properpatriot.com/).
- Share this episode with veterans, military families, and supporters to spread awareness about available resources.
Don't miss this inspiring and informative episode designed to help veterans navigate the complexities of transition. Remember, don't drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline!
Subscribe for more episodes supporting our veteran community and hit the bell icon to stay updated!
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #MissionBoxSolutions #ProperPatriot #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #VeteranOwnedBusiness #Mentorship #VeteranCommunity #SupportOurTroops #VeteranCareerSuccess #SupportOurVeterans #MentorshipMatters

John Wayne Troxell on Military Transition, Leadership, and Resilience Nov 14, 2023

Show notes

Empowering Veterans: How Mission Rehab is Transforming Lives Through Job Placement & Skill Building Nov 07, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew sit down with John Ellis, the inspiring founder and CEO of Mission Rehab, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veterans through job placement, skill building, and homeless prevention.
John, a former Army food service specialist, opens up about his personal journey transitioning from military service to civilian life—a journey filled with challenges like unemployment, financial hardship, and navigating the complexities of life after service. His struggles with applying for countless jobs and facing rejection fueled his passion to create Mission Rehab, aimed at providing veterans with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Mission Rehab, based in Aberdeen, South Dakota, has a bold vision: to bring 300 veterans into the local community, boosting the region's workforce and economy while providing veterans with meaningful employment and support. John shares innovative plans to launch hands-on skill-building ventures, such as a super gas station or grocery store, where veterans can gain valuable customer service and retail management experience in a supportive environment.
Throughout the conversation, John emphasizes the critical need for community partnerships, financial support, and mentorship to help expand Mission Rehab’s reach and impact. Hosts Shawn and Eric applaud John’s resilience and dedication and offer their own support to help Mission Rehab succeed.
🔥 Key Topics Covered:
- John’s Army service and personal struggles transitioning to civilian life
- The foundation and purpose behind Mission Rehab
- Innovative ideas for veteran skill development and job placement
- How integrating veterans into local economies benefits entire communities
- Current fundraising efforts, including the Pre-Thanksgiving Meal initiative
- The importance of partnerships and community support for long-term success
💥 How You Can Help:
✅ Donate to Mission Rehab's Pre-Thanksgiving Meal Fundraiser to support veterans in need
✅ Connect John with potential partners for job placement, skill-building programs, or homeless prevention services
✅ Support Mission Rehab by helping build their LinkedIn presence and online network
✅ Reach out to offer expertise, mentorship, or financial support to help expand Mission Rehab’s services
🔗 Connect with John and Mission Rehab:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-ellis-66027223a/
🎧 Listen Now and Join the Mission!
If you’re passionate about supporting veterans and building stronger communities, this episode is for you! Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help spread the word and support Mission Rehab’s life-changing work.
💬 Tell us in the comments: How can we come together to support our veterans in meaningful ways?
#Veterans #MissionRehab #VetSupport #VeteranEmpowerment #MilitaryTransition #NonprofitImpact #CommunitySupport #VETSOS #VeteranSupport #VeteransHelpingVeterans #JobPlacement #SkillBuilding #EndVeteranHomelessness

Amber Kulesza’s Journey: Empowering Veterans to Overcome Disability & Prioritize Mental Health Oct 31, 2023

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring and deeply moving episode of VET S.O.S. as we welcome Amber Kulesza, a disabled Air Force veteran and founder of Amber's Adventures. Amber shares her powerful and transformative story of transitioning from 12 years of dedicated military service to becoming a passionate advocate for veterans navigating disabilities and prioritizing their mental and physical health.
In this heartfelt episode, Amber opens up about the immense challenges she faced after her medical discharge, including living with chronic pain, battling mental health struggles, and the overwhelming process of finding adequate support. She candidly discusses the misinformation surrounding transition services and the feelings of isolation that many veterans experience. Amber challenges the misconceptions about disability, emphasizing the need to reframe how veterans perceive their conditions and the strength found in seeking help.
Amber's personal journey of resilience and vulnerability led her to create Amber's Adventures, a supportive venture focused on consulting, personalized one-on-one coaching, and fostering a tight-knit community. Her mission is to empower veterans to understand their disabilities, confidently communicate with medical teams, and access vital resources, all while prioritizing mental wellness and self-care.
Key Topics Discussed:
• Amber's 12-year distinguished career in the Air Force in aircraft and vehicle maintenance, postal operations, and cyber career fields
• Overcoming the emotional and physical challenges of military transition and breaking the stigma of disability
• The crucial role of mental and physical health in achieving a fulfilling post-military life
• How Amber's Adventures offers tailored coaching, consulting, and a supportive community for veterans
• Actionable steps for veterans to seek support, build resilience, and forge meaningful connections
• Amber's advocacy for in-person connections and how travel has played a role in her healing process
Amber's story is a remarkable testament to resilience, unwavering strength, and the healing power of community. Tune in to discover how she's transforming lives and inspiring fellow veterans to prioritize their well-being and embrace their unique journeys.
Action Items:
✅ Connect with Amber on LinkedIn to explore her services and discover valuable resources. - Amber's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-kulesza/ - Amber's Adventures - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ambersadventures-llc
Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more empowering stories from veterans making a difference!
#Veterans #MentalHealth #DisabilityAwareness #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #AmberKulesza #VETSOS #AmbersAdventures #VeteranCommunity #Resilience #Empowerment #MentalHealthAwareness #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVeterans

Chris Lancia on Leadership, Community Impact, and the Travis Manion Foundation Oct 24, 2023

Show notes

Empowering Veterans: Chris Lancia on Transitioning to Government Leadership Oct 17, 2023

Show notes

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Chris Lancia, a Tennessee Governor's Veteran Fellow and decorated U.S. Army veteran with over 25 years of service. Chris offers a deep dive into the Tennessee Governor's Veteran Fellowship Program, an innovative 12-month paid initiative that equips veterans with the skills and experience needed to transition into impactful roles within state government.
Chris breaks down the program's structured three-phase approach: first, fellows immerse themselves in understanding the inner workings of state government operations; second, they tackle significant project work that shapes public policy and state services; and finally, they transition into full-time employment roles, contributing their military-honed leadership skills to the civilian workforce. This state-funded program is designed to eliminate financial barriers, making the transition smoother for veterans.
Chris emphasizes the importance of executive coaching, mentorship, and professional development tailored to veterans. These components help fellows overcome common challenges such as cultural fit, professional networking, and navigating civilian workplace expectations. He also discusses the vision to expand this successful model to local governments across Tennessee and potentially nationwide.
Beyond the fellowship, Chris reflects on his diverse military career—from Black Hawk crew chief to logistics and public affairs officer with the elite 1/60 Special Operations Aviation Regiment. He shares his impactful work with nonprofit organizations like the George W. Bush Institute and the Travis Manion Foundation, and his co-founding of Grid Square Recon LLC, which connects military families with local resources.
Chris passionately highlights the need for veterans to build and lean on strong support networks, engage in mentorship opportunities, and invest in their communities to ensure a successful and fulfilling transition to civilian life.
Don't miss this in-depth conversation about veteran leadership, community impact, and how innovative programs like the Tennessee Governor's Veteran Fellowship are paving the way for veterans to continue serving in meaningful roles. Discover how you can support or replicate this initiative in your own community!
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and veteran resources!
Connect with Chris Lancia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-lancia/
Learn more about the Tennessee Governor's Veteran Fellowship Program:
https://www.tn.gov/governor/contact-us/governor-s-veteran-fellowship.html
Follow VET S.O.S.: https://vetsospodcast.com
#Veterans #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEmployment #VETSOS #TennesseeVeterans #MilitarySupport #Leadership #VeteranFellowship #CommunitySupport #VeteranLeadership #VeteranTransition #MilitaryToCivilian #LeadershipDevelopment #VeteranSupport #GovFellowship #MilitaryCareers #VeteranLeadership #CommunityImpact #VETSOSPodcast

Master Your Civilian Job Search: Veteran Resume & Career Tips with Lori Norris Oct 10, 2023

Show notes

In this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew sit down with Lori Norris, the dynamic host of the Lessons Learned for Vets podcast and a leading authority on veteran career transitions. With nearly two decades of experience helping service members and veterans successfully navigate the civilian workforce, Lori shares invaluable strategies to help you thrive after military service.
Lori discusses her journey from a hiring manager in retail to becoming a dedicated advocate for veterans, sharing how her volunteer work at Luke Air Force Base in 2005 sparked her mission to teach job search skills, resume writing, and career development. She dives deep into the challenges veterans face when translating military experience into civilian terms and offers actionable advice on how to adapt to the language and expectations of the private sector.
🚀 Exclusive Insight: Lori introduces her highly anticipated online course, "Next for Vets," designed to guide veterans through crafting powerful resumes that pass applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the eyes of hiring managers.
Throughout the episode, Lori emphasizes that career transition isn't just about landing a job—it’s about continuous growth, mental and emotional wellness, and building a sustainable, fulfilling career.
Whether you’re preparing for separation, actively transitioning, or seeking to level up your civilian career, this episode is packed with expert advice and inspiration to help you take control of your post-military future.
🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to VET S.O.S. for more empowering stories and resources for veterans!
🔗 Connect with Lori Norris:
🎧 Lessons Learned for Vets Podcast: https://www.nextforvets.com/podcast
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorinorris/
📲 Stay Connected with VET S.O.S.:
📺 Subscribe to VET S.O.S.: https://vetsospodcast.com
💬 Share your thoughts below!
What’s been your biggest challenge in transitioning to civilian life? Drop your comments and let’s continue the conversation!
#VETSOS #VeteranTransition #LoriNorris #LessonsLearnedForVets #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranCareers #NextForVets #VeteranSuccess #ResumeWriting #JobSearchTips #ResumeWritingTips #JobSearchStrategies #CareerTransition #VeteranSupport #VETSOSPodcast

Breaking the Stigma: Veteran Manny Vera's Journey to Mental Health Advocacy with Here Tomorrow Oct 03, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew engage in an in-depth conversation with Army veteran and dedicated mental health advocate Manny Vera. Manny shares his inspiring journey from serving as a Military Police officer to transitioning into law enforcement and ultimately finding his calling as a military peer recovery specialist at Here Tomorrow, a nonprofit based in Neptune Beach, Florida.
Manny bravely opens up about his personal battles with mental health, including experiences with depression and substance misuse, and sheds light on the stigma surrounding mental health in the military community. He discusses the challenges veterans face when seeking help, the fear of jeopardizing their careers, and the often-overlooked obstacles in the military-to-civilian transition process, such as inadequate resume training and job search guidance.
Here Tomorrow stands as a beacon of hope for veterans and first responders by offering free, non-clinical peer support and access to therapy. Manny explains how peer support plays a critical role in creating a safe, understanding space for individuals in need. The organization provides various specialized support groups, including general mental health, LGBTQ+ support, veteran and first responder groups, and even music therapy sessions designed to foster healing and community connection.
Looking ahead, Here Tomorrow is ambitiously expanding its services to include a teen support program aimed at addressing mental health struggles in younger populations. Manny emphasizes the importance of community involvement, donations, and partnerships with local veteran organizations to help sustain and grow these essential services. He passionately encourages listeners to take proactive steps to support mental health initiatives and to share Here Tomorrow's mission with those who may need it most.
Action Items:
- Reach out to local veteran organizations like the American Legion to spread awareness about Here Tomorrow’s life-changing services.
- Donate to Here Tomorrow to help expand their mental health programs and sustain their impactful work.
- Follow Here Tomorrow on Instagram and other social media platforms for updates, resources, and opportunities to get involved.
Learn more about Here Tomorrow: https://heretomorrow.org/
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone. There is hope, and help is here.
#MentalHealthAwareness #VeteransSupport #HereTomorrow #VETSOS #MentalHealthMatters #SuicidePrevention #VeteranAdvocate #FirstResponderSupport #PeerSupport #CommunityHealing #MilitaryMentalHealth #EndTheStigma #CommunityHealing

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected