VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Transforming Veteran Careers: Leslie Coffey on ACP’s Life-Changing Mentorship Program Apr 19, 2023

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring and informative episode with Leslie Coffey, the Vice President of Military Engagement at American Corporate Partners (ACP). Leslie brings years of experience and dedication to helping veterans and military spouses navigate career transitions successfully. In this episode, she dives into the life-changing impact of mentorship and the incredible work ACP is doing to support the military community.
ACP offers a free, customized mentorship program that pairs veterans and military spouses with professionals in their desired fields. With personalized career guidance, ACP ensures its participants receive the support they need to succeed. The program boasts an impressive 97% satisfaction rate for veterans and a 99% satisfaction rate for mentors, highlighting the effectiveness of their approach.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Leslie’s Journey: Discover what inspired Leslie to dedicate her career to serving the military community and her extensive volunteering efforts, including working with Survivor Outreach Services to support gold star spouses.
✅ ACP's Mentorship Program: Learn how ACP’s human-driven approach ensures meaningful connections between mentors and mentees. From exploring new career paths to providing guidance on specific industries, the program’s flexibility and support are unmatched.
✅ Career Exploration: Hear about unique and exciting career opportunities uncovered through ACP's webinars, like a role as a Director of Ice Cream Planning at Unilever!
✅ Tips for Transition: Gain valuable insights into overcoming challenges during career transitions, giving yourself permission to explore new possibilities, and not being afraid to take a leap into something different.
✅ How to Get Involved: Whether you’re a veteran, military spouse, or professional looking to give back, Leslie explains how you can get involved with ACP as a mentor or mentee.
Why This Episode Matters:
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be daunting, but Leslie emphasizes that no one has to go through it alone. With resources like ACP’s mentorship program and support groups, veterans and military spouses can find a clear path to success. Plus, the program isn’t just about professional growth—it’s about building a community of support and encouragement.
📢 Action Items:
- Veterans and Military Spouses: Sign up as a mentee at ACP to receive tailored guidance for your career goals.
- Professionals: Volunteer as a mentor to support veterans and military spouses in their career journeys.
- Join ACP Connects on LinkedIn and other social media platforms for peer support, webinars, and exclusive job opportunities.
🔗 Connect with ACP:
🌐 Website: American Corporate Partners - https://www.acp-usa.org/
💼 LinkedIn: ACP - https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-corporate-partners/posts/?feedView=all
💬 Share Your Thoughts: Have you experienced the power of mentorship during a career transition? Let us know in the comments and share your story!
🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform.
#VETSOS #Veterans #MilitarySpouses #Mentorship #CareerTransition #AmericanCorporatePartners #ACP #VeteranSupport #MilitaryCareers #CareerSuccess

How Operation New Uniform Transforms Veteran and Spouse Careers Apr 19, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of VET S.O.S., we’re honored to host Tracey Bradley, Sr., a retired US Navy veteran with over 20 years of service, who now dedicates his time to empowering veterans and military spouses through the nonprofit sector. Tracey shares his personal transition journey, the challenges he faced moving into the corporate world, and his passion for helping others succeed.
Tracey is a key leader at Operation New Uniform (ONU), a nonprofit organization that equips veterans and their spouses with the tools, resources, and confidence to secure meaningful careers. ONU’s program leverages the Sandler sales method to teach participants how to market themselves effectively in job interviews and in the workplace. By incorporating tools like the DISC assessment, ONU helps participants understand their communication styles to foster professional growth. With a 96-97% success rate in career placement and an average starting salary of $75k, ONU is setting the standard for successful military transitions.
Tracey also highlights the unique challenges faced by military spouses, how ONU’s spouse program addresses these challenges, and the importance of including spouses in the transition process. Additionally, he discusses the expansion of ONU’s offerings, including a new online course launching in January, which will make their life-changing program accessible to more people.
Beyond his work with ONU, Tracey is an active member of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, where he serves on multiple committees and councils to support the local veteran community. He emphasizes the power of community collaboration and networking opportunities through partnerships with organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project and Fire Watch, fostering a supportive ecosystem for veterans and their families.
Key Highlights:
- Tracey’s transition story from military service to nonprofit leadership
- The unique challenges veterans and military spouses face when entering the civilian workforce
- An in-depth look at ONU’s proven training program and resources
- The role of community and networking in ensuring a successful transition
- ONU’s ambitious expansion plans, including a new online course
Action Items:
- Promote ONU’s programs to transitioning veterans and military spouses in your community.
- Explore partnership opportunities with organizations like the Association of Veteran-Owned Businesses in Tampa.
- Support ONU’s mission through volunteering, donations, or spreading awareness.
💡 Get Involved:
Learn more about Operation New Uniform (ONU): https://www.onuvets.org/
📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring content and valuable resources for the veteran community. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who have served our nation.
#VETSOS #OperationNewUniform #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #Veterans #Nonprofit #CareerSuccess #MilitarySpouses #VeteranCommunity #Networking #CommunitySupport

Unlock Career Success: Tyrone Hewitt on Certifications, Transition & Act Now Education Apr 10, 2023

Show notes

Join hosts Shawn and Mark as they sit down with Navy veteran Tyrone Hewitt, a dedicated transition counselor and volunteer with Act Now Education. With 20 years of military service under his belt, Tyrone shares his inspiring journey of helping service members and veterans navigate their transitions into civilian careers.
In this episode, Tyrone dives into the power of certifications and education in unlocking better job opportunities. He shares an impactful story about a veteran who saved $2,000 on a PMP certification by utilizing available programs, showcasing the incredible resources available to service members. Tyrone highlights how certifications not only empower veterans and military spouses to negotiate salaries and meet job qualifications but also prepare them for long-term success—all without accumulating debt.
💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The invaluable resources offered by Act Now Education, including certifications for PMP, IT security, and more.
✅ Strategies for leveraging certifications to stand out in competitive job markets.
✅ Overcoming the challenges of transition by prioritizing goals and focusing on high-impact programs.
✅ Balancing education, transition, and family expectations to avoid burnout.
✅ How active duty programs can support education and certifications, benefiting both retention and transition success.
Tyrone’s advice is clear: Don’t be afraid to seek help, build your network, and take full advantage of the resources designed for veterans and military spouses. Whether you're transitioning out of the military, supporting a veteran, or just looking for insights into career success, this episode is packed with actionable tips and valuable perspectives.
📌 Action Items for You:
👉 Watch more episodes of the VET S.O.S. series to gain deeper insights and knowledge.
👉 Connect with podcast guests on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and grow your professional network.
👉 Explore the Act Now Education platform for certifications, career resources, and preparation tools.
🔗 Links & Resources:
🌐 Visit Act Now Education for more resources and opportunities: https://actnoweducation.org/.
Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to the VET S.O.S. channel for more inspiring and resourceful content! Together, we can support the veteran community. 🇺🇸
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #CareerResources #CertificationsMatter #ActNowEducation #PMP #VeteransHelpingVeterans #MilitarySpouse #TransitionSuccess

How Veterans Can Succeed in Higher Education: Resources, Mentorship, and Transition Strategies Apr 10, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark welcome Hira Byrne, a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with a mission to bridge the gap between disability services and veteran services in higher education. Hira brings her expertise and personal connection to the veteran community, inspired by her grandfather’s service as a WWII POW, to shine a spotlight on the unique challenges veterans face in academic environments.
Key Topics Discussed:
✅ The importance of inter-department collaboration in higher education to support veterans holistically.
✅ How veterans can access academic and mental health resources from organizations like Service to School, Warrior-Scholar Project, and Paralyzed Veterans of America.
✅ Practical strategies for veterans to leverage Veteran Service Officers (VSOs), Veterans Resource Centers, and community resources.
✅ Navigating post-military transitions: building networks, seeking mentorship, and understanding available benefits.
✅ Scaling veteran support programs across campuses and creating intentional support systems, even with limited institutional resources.
Hira also highlights organizations like Boots to Books and the Warrior Care Network, emphasizing their role in providing transition resources, academic support, and mental health services for veterans and their families. Her advice? Don’t try to do everything alone—ask questions, seek help, and connect with others in your field.
Connect with Hira:
Learn how you can better navigate the higher education journey as a veteran. For more information, reach out to Hira directly (details shared in the episode).
👉 Don’t miss this episode filled with actionable insights and tools to help veterans succeed in higher education!
📢 Follow VET S.O.S.:
Stay connected for more episodes, resources, and updates. Visit https://vetsospodcast.com and follow us on social media!
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #HigherEducation #TransitionResources #VeteransServices #ServiceToSchool #WarriorScholarProject #ParalyzedVeterans #StudentVeterans #MentalHealthForVeterans

Empowering Military Spouses: Career Tips, Free Certifications, and Advocacy with Kasie Valenti Apr 10, 2023

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Kasie Valenti, the dynamic founder and CEO of Sigma Forces. As a first-generation college graduate, Army veteran, and military spouse, Kasie brings a wealth of experience and understanding to the challenges faced by military spouses. She highlights issues like unemployment, underemployment, and the additional hurdles of international assignments—offering practical solutions for overcoming these obstacles.
Kasie shares the importance of strategic volunteering, which helps military spouses and veterans gain relevant work experience and expand their professional networks. She also emphasizes LinkedIn optimization as a critical tool for standing out to recruiters and employers.
In this episode, Kasie introduces Sigma Forces, a globally accredited training provider committed to enhancing employability through affordable certifications. As part of their mission, Sigma Forces offers 10 FREE certifications on their website, empowering military spouses and veterans to advance their careers without financial barriers.
Additionally, Kasie discusses the Military Spouse Hiring Act, a critical piece of legislation aimed at reducing employment challenges for military spouses. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and highlights how military spouses can use their adaptability, resilience, and unique skills to succeed in today’s job market.
📌 Action Items for Viewers:
- Sign up for Kasie’s LinkedIn Optimization Workshops to improve your online professional presence.
- Explore the FREE certifications available at SigmaForces.com.
- Connect with Kasie Valenti on LinkedIn to learn more about career resources and opportunities.
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasie-valenti/ 🎧 Tune in now to learn how Kasie Valenti is empowering military spouses and veterans, and discover the resources you need to take the next step in your career journey!
💡 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this video to help spread the word about these invaluable resources for the military community!
#VETSOS #MilitarySpouse #CareerAdvancement #VeteranResources #SigmaForces #LinkedInOptimization #MilitarySupport #EmploymentSolutions #ProfessionalDevelopment #MilitaryCommunity #StrategicVolunteering
Thank you for supporting VET S.O.S. and our mission to connect veterans, military spouses, and their families to life-changing resources!

Mark Reilly Unveils The Washington Tattoo: Music, Healing, and Veteran Support Apr 10, 2023

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined by Mark Reilly, a renowned musician, drummer, and CEO of The Washington Tattoo, to explore the transformative power of music in creating community and supporting veterans. Mark shares his personal connection to military service, his grandfather's experiences in World War II, and how these influences shaped his passion for using music as a tool for healing. The Washington Tattoo, established in 2019, is on a mission to bring a world-class music and arts festival to Washington, D.C., while providing performing opportunities for veterans, fostering community outreach, and addressing the challenges many veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. Despite setbacks from the pandemic, the organization adapted through virtual events, podcasts, and partnerships with notable institutions like the University of Edinburgh and Boston University. What you’ll learn in this episode: 🎵 How music serves as a bridge to healing for veterans coping with PTSD and trauma. 🌍 The global partnerships and collaborations driving The Washington Tattoo’s mission. 🎤 Upcoming live events, including a monumental music festival in 2026 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. 📢 How YOU can get involved with The Washington Tattoo to support their work and join a growing community. Whether you're passionate about music, interested in supporting veterans, or simply curious about the impact of creative arts, this episode will inspire and educate you about the unique ways music connects us all. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Visit The Washington Tattoo: https://www.thewashingtontattoo.com Connect with Mark Reilly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmarkreilly/ 📅 Action Items: Explore collaboration opportunities with local bagpipe corps or military music groups. Get involved with The Washington Tattoo's initiatives and events. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Music is not just an art; it’s a lifeline for veterans, a tool for community connection, and a bridge between cultures. Let’s support initiatives like The Washington Tattoo that combine creativity and purpose for a lasting impact. 🎥 Watch More Episodes of VET S.O.S.: 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell for updates! #VETSOS #Veterans #MusicHeals #TheWashingtonTattoo #VeteranSupport #HealingThroughMusic #CommunityImpact #MilitaryMusic #MusicFestival #VeteranStories #VETResources

Empowering Veterans: Dr. Mariah Thomas on Navigating Transition & Emotional Wellness | The-Alpha Arc Apr 10, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of VET S.O.S., we are honored to host Dr. Moriah Thomas, a Marine Corps veteran and expert in industrial and organizational psychology, to delve into the challenges veterans face during their transition from military to civilian life. Dr. Thomas shares insights into her groundbreaking The-Alpha Arc program, a six-session, one-on-one coaching initiative tailored to help veterans understand and manage the complex emotions of transition, such as confusion, guilt, and anger.
Dr. Thomas's passion stems from her personal journey and her husband’s struggles transitioning out of the military. Her unique approach equips veterans with emotional awareness, accountability, and practical tools to create a fulfilling post-military life. Despite running the program as a one-person operation, Dr. Thomas has seen immense success and plans to expand its reach to help more veterans.
🗣️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- The psychological and emotional hurdles of transitioning to civilian life.
- How confusion and anger often mask deeper emotional struggles.
- The transformative impact of The-Alpha Arc program’s personalized structure.
- The importance of self-awareness and accountability in creating lasting change.
- Dr. Thomas’s plans to scale The-Alpha Arc program and make it accessible to more veterans.
✨ Key Highlights:
- Why emotions like confusion, anger, and guilt arise during transition—and how to address them.
- The structure and methodology of The-Alpha Arc program, which combines self-reflective questions, tailored support, and accountability.
- Real-life stories of impact and feedback from veterans who’ve completed the program.
- Dr. Thomas’s dedication to helping veterans, even by connecting them to other resources when needed.
📢 Action Items:
- Reach out to explore one-on-one support or collaboration opportunities.
- Share this episode to help veterans in your network navigate their transition successfully.
🔗 Resources Mentioned:
The-Alpha Arc Program: https://www.thealphacoachingandconsulting.com/services-2
Connect with Dr. Moriah Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-moriah-thomas-ph-d-lmhc-bcc-2a032818/
👥 Let’s Stay Connected! 💬 Comment below with your thoughts, tag a friend who needs to hear this, and don’t forget to hit like and subscribe to support VET S.O.S.!
📌 Subscribe and click the bell to stay updated on upcoming episodes and resources for veterans.
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #VeteransHelpingVeterans #MilitaryTransition #VeteranMentalHealth #EmotionalWellness #TheAlphaArc #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranResources #LeadershipDevelopment #TransitionSuccess

Empowering Women Veterans: Dr. Destinee Prete on We2AreVets Apr 03, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined by Dr. Destinee Prete, a military veteran, industrial-organizational psychologist, and the founder of We2AreVets, a nonprofit on a mission to honor, empower, and recognize women veterans.
Dr. Prete takes us on a journey through her incredible transition from military service to civilian life, earning her PhD, and creating a supportive community for women veterans. She shares insights into the unique challenges women veterans face, including workplace sexism, lack of inclusivity, and self-identification barriers. Dr. Prete discusses how We2AreVets fosters empowerment, collaboration, and recognition for women in the veteran community.
As a certified veteran developmental coach, Dr. Prete has coached thousands of service members, veterans, spouses, and business leaders, transforming her coaching approach from individual sessions to professional identity workshops and group coaching. She also shares innovative strategies, such as leveraging federal work-study programs to build her nonprofit team while providing meaningful opportunities to students.
✨ Episode Highlights:
- The mission and vision of We2AreVets
- Key challenges for women veterans and solutions to foster inclusivity
- How federal work-study programs are creating a win-win for students and nonprofits
- Dr. Prete’s research on the women veteran transition experience and workplace dynamics
- Her work coaching corporate leaders to better support veteran employees
🚀 Action Items:
- Hiring social media and content experts for We2AreVets
- Exploring partnerships with other nonprofits to leverage resources
- Connecting with Project Reboot to collaborate on veteran hiring and retention initiatives
💡 Connect with Dr. Destinee Prete:
🌐 Website: https://www.we2arevets.org/
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/destinee-prete/
✨ Support We2AreVets:
If you’re passionate about empowering women veterans, consider volunteering, partnering, or donating to support Dr. Prete’s mission.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and actionable resources for the veteran community!
📌 Top Hashtags:
#VETSOS #WomenVeterans #VeteranSupport #Coaching #TransitionSupport #NonprofitLeadership #We2AreVets #VeteranResources #InclusionMatters #EmpoweringWomen

Military Career Transition Made Simple: Insights from HR Expert Bill Kieffer Apr 03, 2023

Show notes

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark dive deep into the world of military career transitions with Bill Kieffer, an Army veteran with over 23 years of experience as a senior HR executive and the President of Kieffer and Associates. Bill’s expertise lies in helping veterans navigate the often-challenging journey from military service to civilian careers through career transition coaching, leadership development, and strategic talent management.
Bill shares his personal story of transitioning from the Army to the corporate world, highlighting the difficulties he faced and how those experiences inspired him to dedicate his career to supporting fellow veterans. He offers actionable insights from his book, Military Career Transition Insights from the Employer Side of the Desk, a must-read resource that provides veterans with a unique perspective from employers on how to successfully align their military skills with civilian job opportunities.
Key topics covered in this episode include:
- The importance of starting the career transition process early, even years before leaving the military.
- How to effectively communicate your military skills in terms civilian employers understand and value.
- The power of networking and building meaningful relationships during the transition process.
- A deep dive into the Why Institute’s "Why Operating System" and how identifying your purpose, process, and promise can transform your career strategy.
- Bill also shares anecdotes from his career, including how his first civilian job lacked purpose compared to his military service and how he rediscovered meaning in his work. He offers valuable advice for veterans of all ranks, specialties, and backgrounds, as well as practical tools for defining success in civilian life.
🎯 Actionable Takeaways from This Episode:
- Check out Bill Kieffer's book, Military Career Transition Insights from the Employer Side of the Desk, to gain employer-focused strategies for a successful transition.
- Explore the Why Institute's coaching and assessment services to understand your personal "why" and how to leverage it in your career journey.
- Begin networking early to build strong relationships that will support your career transition.
- Start preparing for your civilian career now—success is built on small, consistent actions over time.
This episode is a must-watch for veterans, military spouses, and anyone supporting the veteran community. Whether you're preparing for transition or simply seeking inspiration to tackle your career challenges, Bill Kieffer’s insights will leave you empowered and ready to take the next step.
💡 Stay Connected and Support VET S.O.S.:
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help more veterans discover these invaluable resources.
Connect with Bill Kieffer and learn more about Kieffer and Associates:
https://kieffer-associates.com/
📖 Additional Resources:
Get's Bill's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Military-Career-Transition-Insights-Employer/dp/1737371405
The Why Institute’s Why Operating System: https://whyinstitute.com/
VET S.O.S. Podcast episodes and resources: https://vetsospodcast.com
#VETSOS #VeteranTransition #CareerDevelopment #LeadershipCoaching #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranSupport #NetworkingTips #HRInsights #PurposeDriven #VeteranSuccess #VeteranCommunity

Transforming Veteran Transitions: Dr. Vincent Soto on Resilience, Networking & Career Success Apr 03, 2023

Show notes

🎙️ Join hosts Shawn Welsh and Mark Elder as they welcome Dr. Vincent Soto, a career workforce strategist, master facilitator, and dedicated advocate for veterans, military spouses, and first responders. In this episode, Dr. Soto shares his expertise on transition assistance, resilience-building, and career development.
With years of experience working with the Department of Labor’s Transition Assistance Program, Dr. Soto provides valuable insights into programs like the Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT) pilot initiative, which is helping veterans and their families navigate life after service.
🚀 Key Discussion Points:
- Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT): Learn about this innovative program designed to provide essential transition workshops in cities like Dallas, San Antonio, Los Angeles, San Diego, Philadelphia, Boston, and Charlotte. Dr. Soto highlights the importance of targeting younger veteran populations and the role of online resources for accessibility.
- Resilience Building Leadership Professional (RBLP) Program: Discover how veterans, military spouses, and first responders can participate in free exam prep workshops focused on building resilience, developing leadership skills, and excelling in professional and personal life.
- Salary Negotiation Strategies: Dr. Soto shares his tips for effectively negotiating salaries and understanding your worth during the job application process, using real-world examples to highlight common pitfalls and successes.
- Networking and Professional Growth: Learn how expanding your network, connecting with recruiters, and asking for help can transform your transition journey. Dr. Soto stresses the importance of leveraging your unique military experience to stand out in the civilian workforce.
- Free Resources for Veterans: Dr. Soto passionately advocates for free training and resources to support veterans’ success, emphasizing the unmatched skills, leadership, and work ethic veterans bring to any organization.
✨ Dr. Soto’s Vision: Dr. Soto is dedicated to creating impactful, free resources through his nonprofit, Navigating Solutions, ensuring that veterans, military spouses, and first responders have access to the tools they need to thrive.
🎯 What You Can Do Next:
- Explore Resilience Training: Take advantage of Dr. Soto’s free resilience-building leadership training classes through Navigating Solutions.
- Collaborate with Navigating Solutions: Reach out to Dr. Soto to explore partnership opportunities and how your organization can support veterans.
- Enroll in Free RBLP Classes: Consider joining the next round of free exam prep workshops to enhance your leadership skills and resilience.
- Apply the Advice: Start negotiating with confidence, building your network, and leveraging the unique value you bring to the table as a veteran or military spouse.
📢 Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:
Navigating Solutions: https://www.navigatingsolutions.org/
💬 What Are Your Thoughts?
Drop your questions or comments below and share your experiences with transition programs, salary negotiations, or resilience-building. Don’t forget to hit the like button, subscribe to our channel, and share this episode with your network!
🎥 New Episodes Every Week! Tune in for more inspirational stories, actionable advice, and resources for the veteran community.
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #TransitionAssistance #MilitarySpouses #ResilienceLeadership #CareerGrowth #NetworkingTips #SalaryNegotiation #Veterans #LeadershipTraining #MilitaryTransition

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