VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

How Veterans Can Launch a Successful Cybersecurity Career Sep 26, 2023

Show notes

In this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric dive deep into the world of cybersecurity and how veterans can successfully transition into this high-demand field. Joining them are two industry leaders: Gunnar Kallstrom, a cyber team lead and former Army musician, and Keith Cassant, a veteran employment program manager at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
🚀 Gunnar’s Journey:
After serving 15 years in the Army, Gunnar faced uncertainty about his next step. Through the Army Transition Assistance Program, he discovered cybersecurity as a promising career path. Gunnar enrolled in a four-month online cybersecurity program while still in service and later completed 800 hours of intensive training through the Cyber Warrior Academy. His dedication paid off—Gunnar secured a cybersecurity role before graduating. He shares how continuous learning, hands-on practice, and home labs like Hack The Box and TryHackMe helped him bridge the gap between theory and real-world cybersecurity challenges.
💼 Keith’s Expertise in Veteran Career Development:
With over 22 years of military experience, Keith understands the struggles of career reinvention firsthand. In his dual role at CISA, he focuses on veteran outreach, mentorship, and connecting veterans with cybersecurity opportunities. Keith highlights the importance of building a "board of advisors" for guidance, narrowing your career focus, and balancing certifications, experience, and education for success.
Keith also introduces the CISA Cyber Career Pathway Tool, a powerful resource that helps veterans explore cybersecurity career paths based on their skills and interests. This tool breaks down job roles, necessary skills, and growth opportunities, making it easier to map out a clear and achievable path into cybersecurity.
🎯 Key Takeaways:
- The importance of making intentional career decisions and creating a focused transition plan.
- How to leverage military skills like discipline, problem-solving, and adaptability in cybersecurity roles.
- The value of mentorship through platforms like Veterati and professional networks.
- The need for continuous learning with resources like home labs, free online tools, and certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)).
- How the CISA Cyber Career Pathway Tool can help veterans find their place in cybersecurity.
📌 Action Items for Listeners:
✅ Explore the CISA Cyber Career Pathway Tool to discover cybersecurity roles aligned with your skills.
✅ Connect with Gunnar Kallstrom and Keith Cassant on LinkedIn for mentorship and guidance.
✅ Start learning now with platforms like Hack The Box, TryHackMe, and earn key cybersecurity certifications.
✅ Join veteran-focused mentorship platforms like Veterati for personalized guidance.
🔗 Helpful Links:
🔹 CISA: https://www.cisa.gov/
🔹 Connect with Gunnar Kallstrom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gunnar-kallstrom/
🔹 Connect with Keith Cassant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithcassant/
🔹 Cyber Warrior Academy: https://www.cyberwarrior.com/
🔥 Ready to make your move into cybersecurity? This episode is packed with real-world advice, practical resources, and insider insights to help you start strong.
🔔 Subscribe and turn on notifications for more expert advice on transitioning from military service to civilian careers!
#VETSOS #Cybersecurity #MilitaryTransition #VeteransInTech #CISA #CyberCareer #Mentorship #VeteranSupport #CyberWarriorAcademy #CareerChange #CybersecurityCareers #CybersecurityTraining #CISACareers #TechForVeterans #CyberCareerPath #MentorshipMatters

Breaking Barriers: Jim Zenner's Fight Against Veteran Homelessness & Mental Health Challenges Sep 19, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Mark Elder sit down with Jim Zenner, the Director of Military and Veteran Affairs for Los Angeles County. Jim shares his inspiring journey from serving in the U.S. Army to becoming a leading advocate for veterans' mental health and homelessness support. His firsthand experience of overcoming adversity fuels his passion for creating impactful programs that support veterans' reintegration into civilian life.
Jim opens up about his personal struggles after transitioning out of the military, including experiencing homelessness, and how these challenges fueled his passion to help other veterans. He discusses groundbreaking initiatives like the Veteran Peer Access Network, which leverages the lived experiences of veterans to connect peers with mental health resources, and the Skill Bridge program, providing veterans with invaluable career opportunities in local government.
Jim also emphasizes the critical need for stronger partnerships between the VA and county governments to bridge service gaps. He advocates for the development of a national toolkit designed to streamline collaboration and expand services for veterans nationwide. Additionally, Jim shares his vision for a community speaker series aimed at fostering engagement and support for veterans across Los Angeles County.
Key topics covered:
• Jim's transition from military service to veteran advocacy
• Addressing homelessness and mental health challenges among veterans
• Collaboration between the VA and county governments to enhance veteran care
• The importance of the Veteran Peer Access Network and Skill Bridge program
• Advocating for a national toolkit to improve county-VA collaboration
• Engaging veterans through a dynamic community speaker series
Join us for this impactful conversation and discover how Jim Zenner is leading efforts to provide comprehensive support for veterans in Los Angeles County. Gain insight into how collaboration, innovative programs, and community involvement are transforming the lives of veterans.
▶️ Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories from VET S.O.S.!
#VETSOS #VeteransSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranAdvocacy #JimZenner #MilitaryTransition #VeteranResources #VeteranPeerAccess #HomelessVeterans #SkillBridge #VeteranAffairs #CommunitySupport #VeteranLeadership #EndVeteranHomelessness #SkillBridgeProgram #VeteranPeerSupport #MilitaryToCivilian #CommunityForVeterans
Connect with: Jim Zenner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-zenner-46996435/
Military Veteran Affairs LA County: https://mva.lacounty.gov/
Stay connected with VET S.O.S.: https://vetsospodcast.com

Empowering Veterans with Tech Skills & E-Waste Recycling with Mark Casper from Tech for Troops Sep 13, 2023

Show notes

In this impactful episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark sit down with Mark Casper, President and CEO of Tech for Troops, to explore how the organization is transforming the lives of veterans through technology and sustainability. Tech for Troops provides veterans and their families with access to essential IT training and computer literacy programs, helping them build valuable skills for the modern workforce. Beyond education, Tech for Troops is leading the charge in responsible e-waste recycling, having recycled over 800 tons of electronics—including 700+ tons in the past eight years—to prevent harmful waste from polluting our environment.
Mark delves into the organization's innovative approaches to veteran support, including their role in suicide prevention through community-driven gaming tournaments and access to over 5,000 free online courses. The organization offers certified data destruction services that meet HIPAA, NIST, DOD, and NSA standards, ensuring secure handling of donated electronics. Donations include computers, laptops, monitors, and mobile devices, all refurbished to empower veterans in need.
Discover how you can contribute to this vital mission:
📊 Become a monthly supporter by donating $50/month to empower veterans (corporate matching programs available!)
🏋️ Volunteer at Tech for Troops' Richmond, VA facility—help with operations, tech refurbishing, and eBay fundraising sales
💻 Declutter responsibly by sending old electronics through the "Give Back Box" program on the Tech for Troops website
🏳️ Partner with Tech for Troops to host a gaming tournament for the Wounded Warrior Battalion at Camp Lejeune, fostering community and mental well-being
Mark also stresses the critical need for corporations to recognize and leverage the skills veterans bring to the workforce. By hiring veterans and supporting veteran nonprofits, businesses can make a lasting, positive impact.
Learn more and get involved:
➡️ Tech for Troops Website: https://techfortroops.org/
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and actionable insights to support veterans!
#VETSOS #TechForTroops #VeteranSupport #EwasteRecycling #VeteranEmpowerment #GamingForGood #SupportVeterans #ITTraining #Nonprofit #MarineCorpsVeteran #VeteranMentalHealth #Sustainability #CommunityImpact

Peter Cline on Boots to Books & Veteran Career Success Sep 05, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew engage in an inspiring conversation with Peter Cline, an Army veteran and the visionary founder of Boots to Books. Peter candidly shares his personal journey transitioning from military service to civilian life and how his struggles ignited the creation of Boots to Books, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans and their families through education and career opportunities.
Boots to Books has made a profound impact, supporting over 4,000 veterans and providing $80,000 in free educational resources. Peter outlines the organization’s diverse and comprehensive programs, including monthly live events designed to enhance job-seeking skills, technical upskilling opportunities offering certifications and financial aid, and exclusive hiring fairs connecting veterans directly with top companies like Oracle and Accenture.
Peter also introduces the innovative Boots to Books Masterclass, a completely free, in-depth video course addressing common transition challenges such as mental health, higher education, and employment strategies. Taught by industry experts, the Masterclass also includes access to a supportive online community for veterans to engage and collaborate.
Key Topics Covered:
- Peter Cline's inspiring military transition story and the founding of Boots to Books
- The critical role of leveraging diverse networks beyond military-specific groups
- In-depth overview of Boots to Books programs: live events, technical upskilling, and exclusive hiring fairs
- How the free Boots to Books Masterclass helps veterans tackle transition challenges head-on
- The importance of collaboration and unity within the veteran support community
Action Items:
- Help spread the word about the Boots to Books Masterclass by sharing it with transition classes and military bases.
- Connect Boots to Books with skilled marketing professionals to amplify the reach of the Masterclass.
- Share the Masterclass with your professional network to further support veteran transitions and career success.
Don’t forget to subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and valuable resources dedicated to empowering the veteran community.
Connect with Boots to Books:
Website: https://www.boots2books.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bootstobooks/posts/?feedView=all
#VETSOS #BootsToBooks #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEmployment #Masterclass #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranEmpowerment #CareerTransition #VeteranNetworking #NetworkingForSuccess

Unlock Your VA Benefits: Dr. Paul Lawrence Reveals Essential Resources for Veterans Aug 29, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful and insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew sit down with Dr. Paul Lawrence, an esteemed Army veteran and former Under Secretary of Benefits at the US Department of Veteran Affairs. Dr. Lawrence shares his remarkable journey and the pivotal role he played in improving veterans' access to their earned benefits. His latest book, "Veteran Benefits for You," serves as a comprehensive and easy-to-understand guide designed to help veterans and their families navigate the complex VA benefits system. Throughout the episode, Dr. Lawrence reflects on his impactful tenure, including his innovative approach to communication through 110 nationwide telephone town halls during the COVID-19 pandemic, directly engaging with veterans to address their concerns. He also introduces his widely-followed LinkedIn newsletter, Veteran Top Tags, which keeps over 14,000 subscribers informed about the latest updates, resources, and opportunities within the veteran community. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: - Dr. Lawrence's personal journey from military service to the VA leadership role - Challenges within the VA benefits system and strategies for improvement - Behind the scenes of writing "Veteran Benefits for You" and how it simplifies benefits information - The significant role of Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) in providing free, trusted support - Focused advocacy for Vietnam veterans and ensuring all generations of veterans are supported - How the Veteran Top Tags newsletter is fostering empowerment and awareness Exclusive Insights: - Real-life stories from veterans who benefited from Dr. Lawrence's initiatives - How COVID-19 shaped new ways to connect with and support veterans - Practical advice on how veterans can advocate for themselves and utilize available resources Action Items for Listeners: ✅ Connect with Dr. Paul Lawrence on LinkedIn to stay informed about veteran resources ✅ Purchase "Veteran Benefits for You" on Amazon to simplify your understanding of VA benefits ✅ Share information about free veteran service resources with veterans and their families who may be unaware of no-cost assistance Don't miss this empowering and informative conversation that can make a real difference in how veterans and their loved ones access and understand the benefits they've rightfully earned. 📚 Get the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Veterans-Benefits-You-Most-Service/dp/1630062154/ref=pd_lpo_sccl_1/130-1113089-9286932?pd_rd_w=TKS8B&content-id=amzn1.sym.4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_p=4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_r=RD55TQQ9RE4R8MAKC4MW&pd_rd_wg=8ISqi&pd_rd_r=e18adb4c-f603-4ae6-bd36-068dad2a8a7b&pd_rd_i=1630062154&psc=1 👥 Connect with Dr. Lawrence: https://paulrlawrence.com/ Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and resources dedicated to supporting veterans and military families. #VETSOS #VeteranBenefits #PaulLawrence #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #VeteranAdvocacy #VeteranResources #VeteranCommunity #MilitaryFamilies #VSOSupport

Unlocking Career Success for Veterans: Hire Heroes, USA’s Expert Guidance Aug 22, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric welcome Elena Comperatore, Director of Client Service Delivery, and Romaine Byrd, Georgia Program Manager at Hire Heroes USA. Discover how this impactful organization supports veterans and military spouses through personalized services like resume assistance, LinkedIn training, interview preparation, and comprehensive job search strategies that never expire. Elena shares her inspiring journey from construction to HR, highlighting the pivotal role LinkedIn played in connecting her to Hire Heroes USA. Romaine reflects on his transition from military service to civilian life and how his personal experience fuels his passion for guiding veterans toward meaningful careers.
Key Topics Covered:
- Elena's career path from construction to leading client services at Hire Heroes USA
- The importance of networking and LinkedIn in career transitions
- Romaine's military background and his transition to supporting veterans
- Personalized career support services for veterans and military spouses, including resume writing, LinkedIn optimization, and interview coaching
- Volunteer and mentorship opportunities to get involved with Hire Heroes USA
- Success stories of veterans who have found fulfilling careers through Hire Heroes USA's support
The organization's achievement in helping over 83,000 veterans secure employment, with a goal to assist 7,000 more this year
Action Items:
- Explore volunteer and mentorship opportunities with Hire Heroes USA.
- Visit Hire Heroes USA to learn how to get involved as a job seeker, employer partner, or volunteer.
- Share this episode with veterans and military spouses who could benefit from personalized career support.
Connect with Hire Heroes USA: Website: https://www.hireheroesusa.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hire-heroes-usa/posts/?feedView=all
Subscribe for More Veteran Support Stories! 👍 Like, Comment, and Share this video to help spread the word! 🔔 Don't forget to Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes.
#VETSOS #HireHeroesUSA #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEmployment #MilitarySpouse #VeteranJobs #CareerTransition #VeteranCommunity #MilitarySpouseSupport #SupportOurTroops

Navigating Military to Civilian Careers with MILCRUIT Aug 15, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Karleton Lawrence and Dara Lora, co-founders of MILCRUIT, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans and military families in their career transitions. Karl, a retired Marine and Director of Talent Grow Military, and Dara, a retired Air Force member and Acquisition Manager at Kinetics RPO, share their personal transition journeys and how they launched MILCRUIT to bridge the gap between veterans and meaningful employment opportunities.
MILCRUIT connects transitioning service members and military spouses directly with recruiters and talent acquisition professionals, offering actionable support and a growing network of over 200 recruiters across industries and states. Their mission is to build a supportive community where veterans and military families can access direct job opportunities—all at no cost to job seekers.
In this insightful conversation, Karl and Dara delve into the challenges many veterans face when entering the civilian workforce, including translating military skills into civilian terms, overcoming networking barriers, and understanding corporate hiring processes. They share practical strategies for overcoming these challenges and provide advice on how veterans and military spouses can confidently navigate their job search.
You'll also hear about MILCRUIT's future plans to expand its reach, create partnerships with industry leaders, and develop specialized programs tailored to high-demand industries like technology, healthcare, and skilled trades. Their vision is to create a robust support system that empowers veterans to thrive in every sector of the workforce.
Tune in to learn:
- How Karl and Dara successfully navigated their military-to-civilian transitions
- The importance of networking and community support in career development
- MILCRUIT’s mission to provide veterans with direct access to recruiters actively hiring
- Practical tips for translating military experience into civilian roles
- How you can get involved as a veteran, military spouse, or recruiter
👉 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more stories that empower the veteran community!
Connect with MILCRUIT:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milcruit/posts/?feedView=all Website: https://member.meritorious.us/topics/20508/feed
#VETSOS #MILCRUIT #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #CareerSupport #Networking #VeteranEmployment #VeteransInTech #VeteransInHealthcare #SkilledTrades #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryToCivilian #CareerTransition #VeteranNetworking #HireVeterans #MilitarySpouseEmployment #VeteransInBusiness #TransitionSupport #RecruitVeterans #EmpowerVeterans

USAF Veteran to Workplace Culture Expert | Aleha Ingle's Guide to Career Transition & Leadership Aug 08, 2023

Show notes

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Aleha Ingle, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran with 21 years of service and the visionary founder of Work Culture Works. Aleha shares her inspiring transition story from military service to entrepreneurship during the challenging COVID-19 era. Frustrated by the inadequacies of the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), Aleha took matters into her own hands, becoming a self-taught expert in navigating the civilian workforce.
Her firsthand experience with toxic work environments in the corporate world fueled her passion for creating healthier, more productive workplaces. This led to the creation of Work Culture Works, a consulting agency dedicated to helping managers and leaders build positive, supportive work cultures that reduce turnover and improve overall performance.
🔍 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✨ Aleha’s personal challenges transitioning from military to civilian life during the COVID-19 pandemic.
✨ Why the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) often fails veterans—and how to overcome these gaps.
✨ The toxic workplace experiences that inspired Aleha to start her own consulting agency.
✨ The three core service packages of Work Culture Works:
- Basic Training: Foundational guidance for fostering positive leadership and management practices.
- In-Depth Investigations: Comprehensive analysis of workplace dynamics to identify and resolve issues.
- Employee-Perspective Assessments: Anonymous feedback directly from employees to help leaders make impactful changes.
✨ How Aleha goes undercover in organizations to uncover hidden workplace challenges.
✨ Actionable advice for transitioning service members: key questions to ask during job interviews about company culture, employee recognition programs, and veteran onboarding support.
✨ The importance of mental health, adaptability, and seeking help when navigating career transitions.
💡 Key Takeaways for Veterans and Leaders:
🔹 Don’t assume military leadership styles translate directly into civilian workplaces—learn to adapt.
🔹 Be proactive in seeking out educational opportunities and certifications while still in service.
🔹 Ask potential employers about how they recognize achievements, support career growth, and onboard veterans.
🔹 Prioritize mental health and don’t be afraid to ask for help—community support is vital.
🚀 Connect with Aleha Ingle:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alehaingle/
🔔 Subscribe for more stories of resilience, success, and actionable advice for veterans transitioning into civilian life!
👍 Like, Comment, and Share this episode to help spread the word and support the veteran community!
#Veterans #CareerTransition #WorkplaceCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #MilitaryToCivilian #AlehaIngle #WorkCultureWorks #VETSOS #VeteranSuccess #VeteranOwnedBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #EmployeeEngagement #MentalHealthMatters

Master Your Career Transition: Personal Branding Tips with Jennifer Burks Aug 01, 2023

Show notes

In this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Jennifer Burks, a program analyst specializing in personal branding and career marketing. As a military spouse and career transitioner, Jennifer shares her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges, leveraging personal networks, and building a successful career.
Jennifer recounts her pivotal moment of resourcefulness—using Taco Bell sauce packets to create a family meal—which sparked a viral LinkedIn post and launched her consulting business. She discusses the balance between offering free and paid services, the importance of recognizing one's value, and how self-care and community support play crucial roles in successful transitions. Jennifer also delves into how authenticity and vulnerability can strengthen personal branding and create meaningful professional connections.
Key Highlights:
- Jennifer's transition journey and initial challenges after relocating post-military retirement
- Discovering and building a personal brand through authentic storytelling
- The power of networking and authentic connections on platforms like LinkedIn
- Balancing free and paid consulting services while setting healthy boundaries
- Prioritizing self-care, managing compassion fatigue, and building a personal board of directors
- Exciting projects: "Talent Tuesday" networking initiative and an upcoming animated LinkedIn series designed to simplify professional branding concepts
- Actionable advice for military spouses and veterans navigating career changes
Join us for practical insights and motivation to navigate career transitions and leverage your unique strengths!
📚 Learn more about Jennifer Burks and her work:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/militarywhatsnext/
👥 Connect with VET S.O.S. through our website: https://vetsospodcast.com
👍 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more stories and strategies to support veterans and military families!
#VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #CareerBranding #JenniferBurks #VeteranSupport #Networking #PersonalBranding #MilitarySpouse #CareerDevelopment #Authenticity #SelfCare #NetworkingSuccess #MilitarySpouseStrong #CareerGrowth #AuthenticBranding #ProfessionalDevelopment

How Med Tech Vets Helps Veterans Launch Successful Careers in Medical Technology Jul 25, 2023

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Patrice Sutherland, President and Chairman, and Amy Reiter, Director of Operations at MedTechVets. Founded in 2014 by Mike Minogue and Alex Gorsky, MedTechVets is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping military veterans transition into thriving careers in the medical technology industry, including medical devices, life sciences, and pharmaceuticals.
Patrice and Amy share insights into MedTechVets' impactful seven-week cohort program, which boasts a remarkable 91% employment rate post-graduation. The program offers personalized mentorship, resume building, interview preparation, and networking opportunities, all designed to translate military skills into civilian success. Participants are matched with industry mentors based on personality assessments and professional goals, ensuring tailored guidance throughout the program. The program culminates in a high-impact networking conference, connecting veterans with top industry leaders and potential employers.
The episode highlights the organization’s commitment to expanding services to military spouses and its call for support through time, treasure, and talent. Patrice emphasizes the importance of community involvement and financial contributions to sustain and grow the program. Amy discusses how MedTechVets adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding their reach nationwide and transitioning to a fully virtual format to better serve veterans across the country.
Key Topics Covered:
- MedTechVets’ mission, founding story, and history
- Detailed program structure and personalized onboarding process
- Success stories of veterans who transitioned into med tech roles
- Plans for expanding services to military spouses and increasing veteran outreach
- How individuals and organizations can get involved and support their mission
Action Items:
- Spread the word about MedTechVets and their programs by sharing this episode with your network.
- Connect with MedTechVets on LinkedIn to explore volunteering, mentoring, or financial support opportunities through their website https://medtechvets.org/.
- If you're a transitioning veteran or military spouse, consider joining the program to explore a rewarding career in the medical technology industry.
- Encourage organizations in the med tech space to partner with MedTechVets to provide more opportunities for veterans.
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and actionable advice for veterans!
#VETSOS #MedTechVets #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #MedicalTechnology #VeteranEmployment #CareerTransition #NonprofitSupport #Mentorship #VeteranSuccess #NetworkingOpportunities #MentorshipMatters #VeteranSuccessStories #NetworkingForVeterans

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