VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Master Your Military Transition: HKPO Veterans Academy & Skill Bridge Success Jul 18, 2023

Show notes

In this empowering episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Clay Anderson, a 20-year Navy veteran and advocate for veteran transition success. Clay shares the incredible opportunities offered by the HKPO Veterans Academy, a 501(c)(3) DOD Skill Bridge Program providing high-value training in project management, Lean Six Sigma, and leadership development.
Discover how this flexible, rolling-enrollment program—valued at nearly $22,000—delivers personalized mentorship with Master Black Belts, hands-on industry projects, and expert resume and LinkedIn optimization. Clay emphasizes the importance of early transition preparation and calls for greater awareness of this impactful program. The Academy's mission is to empower transitioning service members with practical skills and certifications that enhance employability and bridge the gap to civilian careers.
Clay also highlights how the program extends support beyond participants to include family members and dependents, providing mentorship and connecting them with veteran service organizations. The program's adaptive approach ensures that service members can tailor their learning experience to their unique career goals and time availability, creating a truly customized transition journey.
Whether you're transitioning from active duty or looking to upskill for the civilian workforce, this episode is packed with insights and actionable steps to support your journey. The hosts even compare the program's customizable approach to a "Mongolian barbecue" of transition services—serving up exactly what each participant needs to succeed!
✅ Action Items:
- Spread the word about the HKPO Veterans Academy to support transitioning service members.
- Connect with Clay Anderson on LinkedIn to learn more and get involved.
- Visit the HKPO Veterans Academy website for program details and enrollment information.
👥 Connect with HKPO Veterans Academy: HKPO Veterans Academy Website: https://www.hkpoveteransacademy.org/
📚 Learn More:Explore how the HKPO Veterans Academy can support your transition today! Gain in-demand certifications and real-world experience to stand out in your civilian career search.
📣 Don't Forget to Subscribe!Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and resources to empower veterans and military families.
#VeteranTransition #HKPOVeteransAcademy #SkillBridge #LeadershipDevelopment #VETSOS #MilitaryToCivilian #LeanSixSigma #ProjectManagement #VeteranSupport #CareerTransition #MilitarySkills #VeteranEmployment

Mastering Veteran Career Transitions: Hope White’s Expert Guide to Federal Hiring & Mental Health Jul 11, 2023

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Hope White, an accomplished entrepreneur and expert in the federal hiring process. Raised in a military family, Hope's early experiences with military life deeply influenced her mission to empower veterans in their transition to civilian careers. Drawing from her diverse background in the Army, federal government, and corporate America, Hope brings valuable insights into the complexities of navigating post-military employment.
As the founder of Hopeful Speaking, Hope provides a comprehensive suite of services, including career development strategies, federal resume writing, interview coaching, and leadership training specifically tailored for veterans. Her hands-on approach demystifies the federal hiring system, helping veterans understand job application processes and maximize their employment opportunities.
Hope also discusses her significant role in Alfredo's Coffee House, a thriving virtual community dedicated to supporting veterans. This space fosters meaningful connections and offers mental health resources, allowing veterans to share experiences and build resilience. Hope emphasizes that maintaining mental health and strong social ties are crucial for a successful transition.
Throughout the episode, hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew explore Hope's entrepreneurial journey, the impact of her work in the veteran community, and her unwavering commitment to empowering veterans. Hope candidly shares how persistence, problem-solving, and her deep-rooted faith have guided her mission to support service members.
✨ Key Topics Covered:
- Hope White's military family background and inspiration for veteran advocacy
- Step-by-step guidance on navigating the federal hiring process
- Tailored career development, resume optimization, and leadership training for veterans
- The importance of mental health and community support through Alfredo's Coffee House
- Overcoming challenges through faith, resilience, and a solutions-focused mindset
📚 Action Items:
- Connect with Hope White to discover tailored resources and support for veterans https://www.facebook.com/HopefulSpeakingConsulting/
- Engage with Alfredo's Coffee House to become part of a supportive veteran community
- Prioritize mental health, self-care, and maintaining community connections during transition
Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more empowering stories, expert advice, and essential resources for veterans!
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #HopeWhite #FederalHiring #CareerDevelopment #MentalHealthAwareness #AlfredosCoffeeHouse #VETSOS #LeadershipTraining #CareerSuccess #VeteranEntrepreneurship #MentalHealthMatters #VeteranEntrepreneur #CommunitySupport #VeteranSuccess #EmpoweringVeterans
Watch now and be inspired by how Hope White is transforming veteran transitions and making a lasting impact on the community!

Military to Civilian: Keith Cassant’s No-Nonsense Guide to Veteran Success Jun 27, 2023

Show notes

In this unfiltered and empowering episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Keith Cassant, a veteran with 22 years of distinguished military service, to share his raw and honest story about the difficulties he faced transitioning into civilian life. Now a cybersecurity professional and dedicated mentor, Keith opens up about his struggles, his turning points, and how mentorship helped him overcome significant obstacles.
Keith introduces his trademark "Band Aid Ripper" mentorship style—delivering the hard truths upfront to set clear and realistic expectations for veterans navigating their transition. His tough-love approach is designed to prepare veterans for the mental, emotional, and professional challenges they will inevitably face.
Keith’s story is a must-hear for veterans feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the next step. His insight into the power of mentorship, personal accountability, and persistence will resonate with anyone seeking to take control of their future.
🔑 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
- Keith’s personal transition story from the military to cybersecurity and mentorship
- How medical setbacks derailed his initial career plans and how he pivoted
- The "Band Aid Ripper" approach: Why veterans need honest, no-sugarcoating advice
- Why having multiple mentors is critical for a successful transition
- The importance of putting in the hard work and not relying solely on others
- Insights into balancing a full-time career while volunteering with veteran organizations
- How veterans can prepare mentally and emotionally for the realities of civilian life
🤝 Keith's Volunteer Work:
Keith dedicates his time to supporting veterans through several impactful organizations:
- Hire Heroes USA – Guiding veterans in job searches and career planning
- American Corporate Partners (ACP) – Offering mentorship and professional development
- USO Pathfinders – Assisting transitioning service members and their families
🔥 Keith’s Advice to Veterans:
✔️ Find multiple mentors who will challenge and support you.
✔️ Be mentally prepared for the transition—it’s tough but survivable.
✔️ Don’t expect anyone to hand you success. Put in the work.
✔️ Stay resilient. Every effort you make brings you closer to your goals.
🎯 ACTION ITEMS:
📌 Connect with Keith Cassant on https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithcassant/ for mentorship and professional insights.
📌 Apply Keith’s advice: Push through challenges, stay proactive, and never give up.
🔔 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more real stories, actionable advice, and veteran support.
👍 Like this video if Keith’s insights motivated you to take action.
💬 Comment below: What hard truth have you learned during your transition?
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #MentorshipMatters #VETSOS #KeithCassant #CybersecurityCareers #VeteransHelpingVeterans #TransitionSuccess #VeteransInTech #ResilientVeteran #HardTruths #NeverGiveUp

Soldier for Life: Lifelong Support for Veterans, Military Families & Transition Success Jun 21, 2023

Show notes

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Colonel David Grant and Master Sergeant Lorena Wilson to discuss the vital work of the Soldier for Life (SFL) program. Their conversation dives deep into how SFL empowers service members, veterans, and military families by fostering long-term connections and providing critical resources for a seamless transition into civilian life.
🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🔹 SFL’s Mission: How Soldier for Life bridges the gap between active duty and civilian life by engaging with organizations across the country.
🔹 Key Programs: An inside look at the PACE Program, Army Transition Assistance Program (ATAP), and ETS Sponsorship, which offers essential transition support, including food assistance and local sponsorship.
🔹 Combatting Veteran Homelessness: SFL’s initiatives to reduce homelessness and address critical wellness needs in the veteran community.
🔹 Supporting Military Spouses: Addressing the staggering 22% military spouse unemployment rate and how SFL collaborates with organizations to create meaningful employment opportunities.
🔹 Mental Health & Wellness: SFL’s focus on promoting mental health resources and tackling the stigma around seeking help.
🔹 Community Involvement: The importance of local communities engaging with SFL to create supportive networks for transitioning service members.
📌 Why This Episode Matters:
Every year, thousands of service members leave the military, and the transition process can be overwhelming. Colonel Grant and Master Sergeant Wilson emphasize the importance of early preparation, continuous support, and utilizing available programs to ensure a successful transition. Their insights shed light on how the military community can better support soldiers before, during, and after their service.
🚀 Action Item:
✅ Connect with Soldier for Life to bring their resources to your local community and strengthen the support network for veterans and their families.
🔗 Helpful Links:
Follow Soldier for Life on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/usarmysfl/posts/?feedView=all
Learn more about Soldier for Life: https://soldierforlife.army.mil/
🎧 Listen, Learn, and Lead:
If you’re a service member, veteran, military spouse, or advocate for the military community, this episode is for you. Gain actionable insights and discover how you can make a difference.
💡 Enjoyed this episode? Hit the LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE to the channel, and SHARE this conversation to help spread awareness and support for veterans and their families!
📞 Need Support? Reach out through the VET S.O.S. website for resources and guidance on navigating your transition. https://vetsospodcast.com
#Veterans #SoldierForLife #MilitaryTransition #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #MilitarySpouseEmployment #VETSOS #VeteranResources #SupportOurTroops

Mastering the Military-to-Civilian Transition: Reggie Gooden's Guide for Veterans Jun 14, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and new co-host Eric Brew engage in an in-depth conversation with Reggie Gooden, a retired Command Sergeant Major with an impressive 30-year military career. Now serving as the Regional Director for Still Serving Veterans, Reggie passionately discusses his transition journey and his mission to support fellow veterans in navigating the often-challenging path to civilian life.
Reggie sheds light on the inconsistencies in transition assistance programs across military bases and how Still Serving Veterans is dedicated to filling those critical gaps. Learn how this 17-year nonprofit organization, backed by influential partners like the Call of Duty Endowment, offers comprehensive and free support services for veterans. These services include personalized career transition coaching, advanced resume writing, VA benefit assistance, interview preparation, and immediate need support such as aid with utilities and homelessness prevention.
Reggie emphasizes the significance of self-awareness for veterans—understanding individual skill sets, engaging in honest self-assessments, and proactively preparing for the civilian workforce. He also addresses common misconceptions employers may have about veterans and the ongoing efforts to bridge this understanding. Additionally, Reggie highlights the often-overlooked veteran population on college campuses and the necessity of supporting them in their career pursuits.
Through real-life examples and actionable insights, Reggie underscores the value of being proactive, seeking guidance, and building meaningful networks to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran looking for career advancement, or an organization aiming to support veterans, this episode is packed with valuable strategies and resources.
Action Items:
✅ Reach out to Reggie Gooden at Still Serving Veterans (R.Gooden@ssv.org or 334-384-9111) to learn more about their comprehensive support services.
✅ Connect with Still Serving Veterans on LinkedIn to stay informed on their latest initiatives and programs. https://ssv.org/
✅ Explore partnership opportunities with Still Serving Veterans to enhance veteran support efforts in your community.
Stay connected with VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories, expert advice, and vital resources to empower veterans and their families!
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #StillServingVeterans #CareerTransition #VETSOS #VeteranResources #VeteranEmpowerment #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranSuccess #TransitionAssistance #EmpowerVeterans
Subscribe and follow for more impactful episodes!

VET S.O.S. 1-Year Anniversary 🎉 | New Co-Host Eric Brew, Veteran Career Tips & Future Plans! May 30, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to a monumental episode of VET S.O.S. as we proudly celebrate ONE YEAR of supporting veterans, service members, and military families in their transition to civilian life! Hosts Shawn and Mark reflect on the powerful insights shared by past guests and announce exciting changes and future plans for the podcast.
Joining us for this special episode is Eric Brew from American Corporate Partners (ACP)—a dedicated mentor and advocate for veterans. Eric shares his thoughts on the importance of storytelling in the transition journey and why veterans must give themselves permission to explore new career paths. In a major announcement, Eric is officially introduced as the new co-host of VET S.O.S., with Mark stepping into a behind-the-scenes supporting role.
💥 Episode Highlights:
🔑 Top "Knowledge Bombs" from Past Episodes: Revisit Alfredo Torres' powerful "transition buffet" analogy, encouraging veterans to explore various resources and choose what works best.
🏆 Tyron Hewitt's Job Search Strategies: Learn how to effectively engage in job searches, negotiate salaries, and advocate for your worth in interviews.
💪 Destiny's Story of Grit and Determination: Eric Brew highlights the resilience and strength within the veteran community.
🤝 Networking & Building Authentic Connections: Discover why quality over quantity is key when it comes to networking, as discussed by Will Gibson and others.
🎯 The Importance of Self-Promotion: Gain insights into how veterans can confidently market themselves in interviews and professional spaces.
🚀 Exciting Future Plans for VET S.O.S.:
- Turning VET S.O.S. into a Business: Expanding our reach and impact to provide even more support for the veteran community.
- Hosting Live Events: Join us at upcoming national veteran-focused events like Vets on Tap to network and connect in person.
- Exclusive VET S.O.S. Merchandise: Get ready for branded swag that helps you show your support for the veteran community.
- Community Contests: Participate in our upcoming contest where fans vote for their favorite episode, and VET S.O.S. will donate to the featured organization!
📣 Action Items:
- Engage with Us: Share your favorite VET S.O.S. moment in the comments and on social media using #Pairing.
- Vote in Our Contest: Help us support veteran organizations by voting for your favorite episode!
- Connect at Live Events: Don’t miss the chance to meet us in person at veteran events across the country.
🔔 Make sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on new episodes, live events, and ways to get involved in the veteran community.
Follow VET S.O.S. on Social Media:
📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetsospodcast/
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/vetsospodcast
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088481920773
🌐 Official Website: https://vetsospodcast.com
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #EricBrew #VeteranCommunity #Networking #CareerGrowth #OneYearAnniversary #VeteranResources #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteransHelpingVeterans #NetworkingForVeterans #CareerTransition #LiveEvents

Master Military Transition: LinkedIn Strategy, Mentorship & VA Claim Support with Matthew Langseth May 24, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark welcome Army veteran Matthew Langseth to discuss his 21 years of dedicated military service and his inspiring mission to empower veterans and military spouses in their transition to civilian life. Matthew candidly shares the challenges he faced during his own transition, emphasizing the shortcomings of traditional checklists and the need for proactive planning.
Matthew's transformative journey began with his cautious exploration of LinkedIn, where he moved from simply consuming content to actively engaging, networking, and ultimately creating impactful posts. This evolution not only aided his personal career development but also ignited his passion for guiding others. Now serving as the Director of Marketing, Events, and Business Development at Vets Industry and actively supporting Savvy Vets, Matthew leverages his expertise to help veterans navigate job searches, build professional networks, and manage the often-overwhelming VA claims process.
Throughout the conversation, Matthew emphasizes the importance of mentorship and highlights how the American Corporate Partners (ACP) mentorship program connects veterans with experienced civilian mentors to provide career guidance and invaluable industry insights. He encourages veterans to begin building their networks and seeking mentorship well before their official separation from the military.
Key Topics Covered:
✅ How LinkedIn can transform a veteran's job search and professional networking
✅ Overcoming fears of social media engagement during military transition
✅ Strategies for building meaningful mentorship relationships outside the military
✅ Vets2Industry's role in supporting veterans through networking events and resources
✅ Navigating the VA claims process with guidance from Savvy Vets
Matthew's story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength in community, the value of proactive networking, and the life-changing impact of mentorship.
Don't miss this impactful episode full of practical strategies and inspiration for navigating post-military life!
► Subscribe for more inspiring stories and actionable insights from VET S.O.S.
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #LinkedInNetworking #Mentorship #VETSOS #Vets2Industry #SavvyVets #ACP #VeteranSuccess #MilitarySpouseSupport #VeteranNetworking #CareerTransition #PostMilitarySuccess #MentorshipMatters #ACPmentorship #MilitarySpouseCareers

Empower Your Career: How the Veteran Email Program Helps Veterans Stand Out May 23, 2023

Show notes

In this milestone 50th episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark celebrate a significant achievement by welcoming Brace McCoy, veteran and founder of the Veteran Email Program. Brace dives deep into the motivation and development of this groundbreaking initiative, designed to empower veterans in their career transitions. The Veteran Email Program offers personalized email addresses ending in .vet, allowing veterans to proudly showcase their service in professional settings, resumes, and networking opportunities.
Brace shares his personal journey from serving in the military to working in the financial defense and consumer firearm markets, and how a moment of reflection and prayer inspired him to create the Veteran Email Program. He highlights the ease of signing up, which requires only a DD-214 or similar document, and the program's benefits, including unlimited storage, professional branding, and affordability. Brace also discusses the challenges he’s faced in integrating the program with the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and his strategic use of social media and word-of-mouth to expand awareness.
Throughout the conversation, Shawn and Mark explore how the Veteran Email Program can be utilized beyond job searches—helping veterans build credibility in sales roles, entrepreneurial ventures, and long-term career growth. Brace emphasizes the program's simplicity and how it fills a critical gap for veterans seeking professional distinction.
Connect with Brace McCoy:
Veteran Email Program: https://vmail.vet/
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bracemccoy/
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories, tools, and resources that support veterans transitioning to civilian life.
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEmailProgram #VETSOS #BraceMcCoy #VeteranCommunity #CareerSupport #ProfessionalGrowth #VeteranEmpowerment #ProfessionalBranding #MilitaryVeterans #VeteranEntrepreneurs #TransitionAssistance

From TBI & PTSD to Veteran Business Coach: Shane Hicks' Reboot VA Empowers Veteran Entrepreneurs May 10, 2023

Show notes

In this deeply inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark sit down with Shane Hicks, a West Point graduate, veteran, and the founder of RebootVA. Shane courageously opens up about his struggles with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after his military service and how those experiences fueled his passion to empower other veterans.
Shane created RebootVA, a comprehensive business coaching program that provides veterans and their families with the tools, mentorship, and community support they need to launch and sustain successful ventures. RebootVA offers specialized guidance in marketing, finance, real estate, and health and wellness—ensuring veterans are prepared for every aspect of entrepreneurship.
Shane shares impactful success stories, including how the program transformed the lives of veterans pursuing unique business paths, such as becoming a karate instructor and a tax preparer. His ultimate goal? To make RebootVA self-sustaining by 2028, training future leaders and mentors to carry the mission forward.
⚡ In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Shane Hicks’ military journey and the personal challenges he faced during his transition.
- The creation and mission of RebootVA to support veteran entrepreneurship.
- How veterans can access tailored coaching in relationship marketing, financial planning, and health and wellness.
- Why community support and mentorship are critical to veteran success.
- Ways businesses, mentors, and sponsors can get involved to expand the program’s impact.
🎯 Action Steps You Can Take:
✔️ Veterans: Join RebootVA and begin your business journey.
✔️ Businesses: Sponsor a veteran or mentor in the program to support future leaders.
✔️ Supporters: Share this video and help spread awareness of RebootVA’s mission.
🔗 Explore More About RebootVA:
👉 Visit the official website: https://www.rebootva.net/non-profit
👉 Follow RebootVA on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebootva-organization/
💬 Join the Conversation:
What challenges have you faced in transitioning to civilian life? Share your story or ask questions in the comments below!
📢 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more real conversations and resources supporting the veteran community.
👍 Like this video | 💬 Comment below | 🔔 Turn on notifications for new episodes!
#VeteranSupport #RebootVA #VeteranEntrepreneurs #BusinessCoaching #VETSOS #VeteransHelpingVeterans #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranTransition #MilitaryTransition #VeteranOwnedBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset

How Veterans Are Powering the EV Industry with Kimberly Dinkins May 05, 2023

Show notes

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark engage in an insightful conversation with Kimberly Dinkins, a veteran with 14 years of active duty and over six years in the reserves. Now serving in external affairs at SK Battery America, Kimberly is a passionate advocate for veteran hiring and workforce integration. She shares her inspiring journey from military service to corporate leadership and how her role enables her to give back to the veteran community.
Discover how SK Battery America, a global leader in electric vehicle battery manufacturing for automotive giants like Volkswagen and Ford, has not only surpassed its ambitious 2023 hiring goal by onboarding over 3,000 new employees but is also setting a benchmark for veteran workforce inclusion. Kimberly discusses impactful initiatives like the Heroes Make America program and the Veteran Resource Center at SK Battery America, which provide invaluable support, training, and resources tailored to veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce.
Key Topics Covered:
- Kimberly's personal journey from military service to corporate leadership in external affairs
- The strategic importance of hiring veterans at SK Battery America
- Veterans' unique value in the workplace: leadership, discipline, adaptability, and reliability
- An in-depth look at the Heroes Make America Program and the Veteran Resource Center
- Practical networking strategies for veterans using LinkedIn and other professional platforms
- SK Battery America's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture
Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran seeking new opportunities, or an employer interested in veteran hiring strategies, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice.
Subscribe and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and resources designed to support veterans in their transition journey! Check out SK Battery America at: https://www.skbatteryamerica.com/
👉 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes!
🌐 Follow us on social media for the latest updates and veteran support resources.
#VETSOS #VeteranTransition #SKBatteryAmerica #HeroesMakeAmerica #VeteranHiring #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #EVIndustry #Leadership #CareerDevelopment #VeteranEmpowerment #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteransInTech #EVIndustryCareers #CareerTransition #WorkforceInclusion #HireVeterans #LeadershipDevelopment #VeteranNetworking

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

VET S.O.S. Podcast

Related Podcasts

1

2

3

4

5

6