VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

From Marine to Mentor: How Eric Brew and ACP Transform Veteran Transitions Mar 20, 2023

Show notes

This episode dives deep into the importance of mentorship in a veteran’s journey to civilian life. We’re joined by Eric Brew, Manager of Military Engagement at American Corporate Partners (ACP), who shares his inspiring story of resilience, growth, and the transformative power of community.
Eric reflects on his transition from the Marine Corps, which he joined in 1996, to the Army, his post-9/11 service, and the life-altering lessons he learned as he adjusted to civilian life. He discusses the often-overlooked challenges of reintegration, from identity struggles to building a new sense of purpose.
In this episode, we explore:
✅ Eric’s Personal Journey: From overcoming struggles to joining the military, and eventually discovering his passion for helping others.
✅ Transition Challenges: Why finding a job is just one piece of the puzzle and how mentorship can help veterans address deeper issues.
✅ ACP’s Mentorship Program: A fully funded initiative connecting veterans and military spouses with industry experts for year-long, personalized guidance.
✅ Key Statistics: 75% of ACP participants are enlisted, 37% don’t have a four-year degree, and 40% are over 40—proof that ACP is for veterans of all backgrounds.
✅ How Mentors Make a Difference: Hear Eric’s call to action for more mentors to step up and support the growing number of veterans transitioning out of the military.
✅ Actionable Tips for Veterans: Learn how to build your own “board of directors” and leverage multiple resources to set yourself up for success.
ACP’s program is supported by grants and corporate partnerships, making it free for participants. Whether you're a veteran seeking guidance, a military spouse looking for support, or someone ready to give back as a mentor, this episode is a must-watch!
🔗 Links & Resources:
➡️ Learn more about ACP and sign up as a mentee or mentor: https://www.acp-usa.org/
💡 Key Takeaway: Transitioning from military service isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about redefining who you are. With the right mentorship and support, you can overcome any obstacle and thrive in your next chapter.
🎥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more veteran stories, resources, and actionable advice! Together, we can create a stronger, more supportive veteran community.
#VETSOS #VeteranResources #Mentorship #TransitionSupport #VeteranStories #MilitaryLife #VeteranMentorship #MilitaryTransition #CareerSupport #VeteranSuccess

Understanding PTSD and Trauma: Expert Insights for Veterans and First Responders Mar 20, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode, Joelle Rabow Maletis, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and PTSD expert, shares her expertise on supporting veterans, first responders, and their families through the challenges of trauma and transition. With a clinical PhD and years of experience, Joelle brings both professional insights and personal experience with PTSD to the conversation.
🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Understanding PTSD: The critical difference between post-traumatic stress and PTSD, and why it matters.
- The Role of Micro-Traumas: How small, accumulated traumatic experiences can impact mental health over time.
- Transition Challenges: Why periods like military retirement often trigger PTSD symptoms and how resiliency training can help.
- Mental Health Stigma: The cultural and systemic barriers that discourage veterans from seeking help and how to overcome them.
- Therapeutic Approaches: Effective methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
- Trauma-Informed Care: The challenges of integrating trauma-sensitive approaches into the VA and TRICARE systems.
🌟 Joelle also discusses her work educating employers and communities about supporting veterans and their families, emphasizing the importance of holistic care that addresses mind, body, and spirit.
📌 Why This Episode Matters:
Veterans often face unique challenges when transitioning to civilian life, especially when dealing with unprocessed trauma. Joelle’s insights shed light on practical ways to support this community, from individual coping strategies to systemic changes.
💡 Actionable Takeaways:
- Employers can benefit from trauma-informed training to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces.
- Veterans and their families can explore Joelle’s counseling services to better navigate transitions and healing.
🔗 Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
PsychArmor: Educating employers about veteran issues.
Given Hour: Free mental health services for veterans.
🎥 Tune in to this episode for expert advice, practical tips, and inspiration to better support the veteran community!
🔗 Connect with Joelle Rabow Maletis:
🌐 Website: https://joellerabowmaletis.com/
🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more episodes focused on helping veterans and their families thrive!
#VETSOS #PTSD #VeteranSupport #MentalHealth #TraumaTherapy #TransitionSupport #ResiliencyTraining #PTSDRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaHealing #MilitaryTransition #TraumaInformedCare #VeteranResources #FirstResponderSupport

Empowering Veterans & Military Spouses: Career Tips, Networking, Certifications w/ Kimberly Hessler Mar 13, 2023

Show notes

In this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark sit down with Kimberly Hessler, a dedicated Training Manager with over 30 years of experience supporting the military and veteran community. Kimberly is a military spouse, career coach, and founder of the First Family Support Center in Colorado Springs, where she facilitated the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) for 20 years. Her mission is to help veterans and military spouses overcome barriers to career success, navigate transitions, and build strong professional networks.
🔥 Key Topics Covered in the Episode:
✅ Challenges Facing Military Spouses:
Kimberly addresses the struggles military spouses face, including 30% unemployment rates post-pandemic. She offers advice on overcoming these challenges through certifications, networking, and involvement in professional organizations.
✅ The Importance of Networking:
Learn about the success of First Fridays, a cybersecurity-focused networking event in Colorado Springs, and the Veterans Beer Club, which connects veterans and spouses to career opportunities in an informal setting. Kimberly highlights how these initiatives foster a sense of community and support.
✅ Certifications vs. Degrees:
Kimberly breaks down the difference between certifications and degrees. Certifications, like Security+ (Sec+), are key for landing jobs, while degrees impact long-term earning potential. She also emphasizes the Army COOL program, which offers free certification opportunities to active-duty military members.
✅ Professional Associations and Mentorship:
Kimberly explains the benefits of joining organizations like ISSA (Information Systems Security Association), including access to free resources like test prep, mentoring programs, and symposiums. She encourages military members and spouses to stay active in these communities for career growth.
✅ Soft Skills and Salesmanship:
Discover how Kimberly teaches veterans and transitioning service members to build confidence, communicate effectively, and showcase their skills in interviews and networking events. She provides practical tips for introverts and extroverts alike.
✅ Building Supportive Communities:
Kimberly highlights the incredible support network available in Colorado Springs for veterans and military families, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and starting similar initiatives in other regions.
✅ Veterans Beer Club:
Learn how this unique group connects veterans and military spouses with employers and career mentors over informal gatherings, promoting camaraderie and job opportunities.
📌 Action Items for Viewers:
- Explore virtual networking events for cybersecurity professionals to broaden accessibility.
- Investigate starting a Veterans Beer Club chapter in your community.
- Encourage active-duty military members to leverage free certification programs like COOL to prepare for post-service careers.
- Support initiatives like Hire Military and American Corporate Partners (ACP) to empower veterans and military spouses.
💬 Join the Conversation:
Have you attended a Veterans Beer Club or First Fridays event? What certifications or resources helped you during your transition? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!
📢 Don’t Forget to Subscribe:
Stay connected with VET S.O.S. for more episodes packed with actionable advice, success stories, and valuable resources to support the military community. Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications!
#MilitaryTransition #Veterans #CareerDevelopment #Networking #MilitarySpouses #VETSOS #CybersecurityCareers #VeteranSupport #CommunityBuilding #Certifications

Inside Upstate Warrior Solution’s Mission and Greenville Resource Center Mar 13, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Charlie Hall, a West Point graduate, former Marine, and the visionary leader behind Upstate Warrior Solution (UWS). With a passion for community engagement and veteran advocacy, Charlie shares his transition journey from active duty to heading a nonprofit that makes a real difference in the lives of veterans across South Carolina.
Join us as we explore:
✅ Charlie’s Transition Journey: Insights into his military career, experience with the Wounded Warrior regiment, and the challenges of adapting to civilian life.
✅ Upstate Warrior Solution’s Mission: Serving veterans in a 10-county region of South Carolina by connecting them with employment, healthcare, housing, mentorship, and more.
✅ The Importance of Community Relationships: How UWS builds trust with veterans and collaborates with organizations like the VA, Veterans Ascend, and local nonprofits to provide holistic support.
✅ Fellowship & Volunteer Opportunities: Learn about UWS’s part-time fellowship program designed for transitioning veterans, as well as volunteer roles in mentorship, treatment courts, and local projects like Habitat for Humanity.
✅ Suicide Prevention Initiatives: UWS’s proactive approach to addressing veteran suicide through upstream prevention—focusing on relationships, financial stability, and career support.
✅ Exciting Announcement: The upcoming opening of a 40,000 sq. ft. Veteran Resource Center in Greenville, SC, which will bring together community partners, veteran-friendly businesses, and critical resources under one roof.
🎯 Ways You Can Get Involved with Upstate Warrior Solution
📌 Volunteer: Offer mentorship or hands-on support through UWS programs.
📌 Donate: Support the mission to help veterans in South Carolina thrive.
📌 Partner: Collaborate with UWS to create more opportunities for veterans and their families.
📢 About the New Veteran Resource Center:
Opening in early 2023 in Greenville, SC, this innovative center will serve as a one-stop shop for veterans, offering access to housing, healthcare, job placement services, and community programs. It will even provide safe spaces for homeless veterans to start their journey toward stability and success.
🔗 Learn More About Upstate Warrior Solution:
🌐 Website: https://upstatewarriorsolution.org/
📣 Special Mention: Veterans can also benefit from UWS’s outdoor recreation programs, swimming lessons, whitewater kayaking, and even shark cage diving events!
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and valuable resources for veterans.
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #UpstateWarriorSolution #VeteranResourceCenter #VETSOS #CommunityEngagement #VeteranFellowships #SuicidePrevention #VeteranAdvocacy #MilitaryToCivilian

Bruce Thompson on Transition Success, Networking, and Veterans Ascend Mar 13, 2023

Show notes

In this impactful episode, we’re honored to host Bruce Thompson, a retired Marine Corps veteran with an unwavering commitment to supporting transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses. With decades of experience and a relentless drive to help others, Bruce sheds light on the critical steps, tools, and resources needed to succeed in life after military service.
🌟 Key Topics Covered:
- Mentorship Through Veterati: Bruce shares his incredible journey of dedicating over 900 hours to mentoring veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic, conducting up to 10 calls a day to provide guidance and support. Learn how Veterati connects mentors and mentees for powerful, career-shaping conversations.
- The Power of Networking: Discover why networking is essential for a successful transition. Bruce dives deep into creating a strong LinkedIn presence, personalized connection strategies, and leveraging professional networks to unlock hidden opportunities.
- Veterans Ascend – A Game-Changer for Job Seekers: Bruce introduces Veterans Ascend, a revolutionary platform that matches veterans and military spouses with employers based on skills instead of traditional resumes. This innovative tool simplifies the job search process and empowers veterans to showcase their unique abilities.
- Overcoming Transition Challenges: From inadequate transition programs to the need for better resources, Bruce discusses the difficulties faced by veterans and offers actionable advice to prepare for civilian life early.
- Expanding Opportunities with Talent Ascend: Learn how Veterans Ascend is broadening its mission to serve underserved communities through initiatives like Ability Ascend and Mission to Ascend, ensuring inclusivity and greater impact.
💡 Key Takeaways:
- Start Early: Bruce emphasizes the importance of planning your transition well before leaving the military.
- Leverage Resources: Tap into Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) and platforms like Veterans Ascend to find tailored support.
- Seek Mentorship: Bruce’s dedication to mentoring showcases how impactful guidance from experienced professionals can be.
- Embrace Networking: A strong network and optimized LinkedIn profile can open doors you never knew existed.
- Skills Over Resumes: Platforms like Veterans Ascend allow veterans to focus on what they do best – showcasing their skills to employers directly.
📌 Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
- Veterans Ascend: Explore their groundbreaking platform: https://veteransascend.com
- Veterati: Sign up to become a mentor or mentee and grow your network: https://www.veterati.com
- Connect with Bruce Thompson: Reach out to Bruce on LinkedIn for personalized resources and advice: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucethompsonmba/
👥 Join the Conversation:
This episode is a must-watch for anyone navigating the complexities of military transition, whether you’re a service member, veteran, or military spouse. Bruce’s practical advice and passion for empowering others make this an episode you don’t want to miss.
💬 Engage With Us:
Have questions or insights about today’s discussion? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts. Let’s build a supportive community together!
🔔 Subscribe to VET S.O.S.:
Stay updated on the latest episodes, expert insights, and resources tailored for veterans and military families. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share to spread the word!
#VeteranAdvocate #MilitaryTransition #VeteransAscend #LinkedInForVeterans #NetworkingSuccess #MentorshipMatters #VETSOS #VeteranSupport #NetworkingForVeterans #LinkedInTips #MilitarySpouses #VeteranResources #JobSearchTips

Unlocking Veteran Potential: Matt Wood on Transition Challenges & Corporate Success Mar 13, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined by Matt Wood, founder of Suiting Green Consulting, to explore the critical issues surrounding veterans' transition to civilian careers. Drawing from his own journey from military service to a corporate role at Disney—and ultimately to founding his own consulting firm—Matt offers invaluable insights on bridging the gap between military skills and corporate needs.
📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The Veteran-Corporate Knowledge Gap: Why companies often misunderstand the skills veterans bring and how to address these misconceptions.
✅ The Value of Transferable Skills: How leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills honed in the military translate into corporate success.
✅ The Challenges of Transition: Matt’s personal experience navigating the emotional and professional hurdles of leaving the military and entering the civilian workforce.
✅ Building Stronger Companies: Practical steps organizations can take to hire, retain, and support veterans and military spouses effectively.
✅ Mental Health and Transition Support: The importance of addressing mental and emotional challenges during the transition process and leveraging available resources like the TAP program and the Camaraderie Foundation.
Matt also emphasizes the importance of creating and maintaining effective employee resource groups (ERGs) tailored to the needs of veterans and military spouses, ensuring long-term retention and success.
📢 Action Items from This Episode:
1️⃣ For Companies: Connect with Matt Wood at Suiting Green to create or enhance your military hiring programs, improve retention strategies, and build impactful ERGs.
2️⃣ For Veterans and Military Spouses: Reach out to Matt for job opportunities and guidance on navigating the transition to a corporate career.
3️⃣ For HR Professionals: Learn how to recognize and leverage the diverse experiences and skills veterans bring to the workplace, transforming military-friendly initiatives from "in name only" to meaningful action.
🔥 Why This Episode Matters:
Veterans are an invaluable asset to any organization, bringing unique perspectives, discipline, and leadership to the table. However, the transition to civilian life can be challenging without proper support and understanding from employers. Matt Wood and Suiting Green Consulting are on a mission to ensure veterans and military spouses thrive in their professional lives by fostering collaboration between the military and corporate worlds.
🌟 Support the VET S.O.S. Community:
💬 Like, comment, and share this episode to spread awareness!
📌 Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations and resources.
#Veterans #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEmployment #SuitingGreen #HRTips #VeteranSupport #CorporateLeadership #VETSOS #HireVeterans #MilitarySpouses

Transform Your Job Search with Networking | Trevor Houston of Who Ya Know Show on VET S.O.S. Mar 13, 2023

Show notes

In this exciting episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Trevor Houston, host of the Who Ya Know job networking show, to explore how networking can transform your career journey. Trevor shares his inspiring story of transitioning from the auto industry to financial services and how a pivotal networking event led him to help job seekers create meaningful connections and achieve success.
Trevor’s Who Ya Know network and summit have empowered countless job seekers by focusing on personal branding, human interaction, and networking strategies. He emphasizes that job seekers need to stop sending resumes into a "black hole" and instead prioritize building genuine relationships that open doors to new opportunities.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🔹 Trevor’s Career Journey: From the auto industry to hosting the Who Ya Know show, and why he’s passionate about helping job seekers.
🔹 Overcoming Common Job Search Mistakes: Why focusing solely on resumes often fails and how networking can lead to better results.
🔹 Job Search Strategies: Learn about outbound, inbound, and the "who ya know" approach to finding the right job faster.
🔹 Building Your Personal Brand: How creating a presence on LinkedIn and other platforms can boost your career.
🔹 The Role of Networking: Why job seekers should attend events, stay active in their communities, and never stop building relationships—even after finding a job.
🔹 Thinking Outside the Box: Trevor shares tips on creating content platforms like podcasts to connect with hiring managers and stand out in the competitive job market.
Special Insights from Co-Host Shawn Welsh:
Shawn shares how attending Trevor's Who Ya Know summit transformed his career trajectory, giving him the tools to network effectively and land new opportunities. His personal story underscores the impact of Trevor’s strategies and the value of stepping out of your comfort zone.
🎯 Actionable Steps for Viewers:
1️⃣ Attend the Who Ya Know Summit: Cut your job search time in half with proven networking strategies. https://whoyaknow.show/
2️⃣ Connect with Trevor Houston on LinkedIn: Join his network and gain access to valuable resources and insights. https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevorhouston/
3️⃣ Start Your Own Platform: Whether it’s a podcast, blog, or video series, showcase your skills and make connections with decision-makers in your industry.
💡 Why Watch This Episode?
This episode is a must-watch for veterans, job seekers, and anyone looking to take their career to the next level. Trevor’s practical advice and unique insights will help you stand out, build your brand, and create lasting opportunities in the professional world.
👉 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories, actionable advice, and resources designed to empower veterans and their families.
📢 Join the conversation! What are your top networking tips? Share them in the comments below.
#VeteranSupport #NetworkingTips #CareerSuccess #WhoYaKnow #VETSOS #PersonalBranding #JobSearchStrategies #VeteransHelpingVeterans #CareerTransition #LinkedInNetworking #JobSearchHelp

Empowering Women Veterans: Navigating Military Transition with Marina Rabinek Mar 06, 2023

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we are honored to host Marina Rabinek, a trailblazer for women veterans and founder of the Military Women's Collective. With 24 years of service in the US Navy, Marina shares her personal journey of transitioning to civilian life during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it sparked her passion for helping other women veterans thrive beyond the military.
Marina sheds light on the unique challenges women face in the transition process, including overcoming self-doubt, finding supportive networks, and navigating male-dominated spaces. She addresses the confidence gap women often experience when applying for jobs, where many feel the need to meet 100% of qualifications, compared to men who apply with less. Marina encourages women to recognize their worth, take risks, and seize opportunities to grow into their roles.
The conversation highlights the critical role of mentorship, community, and allyship in empowering women veterans. Marina emphasizes the importance of men as allies and advocates, offering practical steps they can take to support diversity and inclusion in professional settings.
Through the Military Women’s Collective, Marina provides life-changing programs such as scholarships, retreats, and community events designed to build confidence, foster connection, and promote success. She also shares the organization’s vision of CAPES – Community, Authenticity, Positivity, Empathy, and Success – as the foundation for supporting women veterans.
📌 Key Takeaways from the Episode:
- Marina’s emotional journey transitioning out of the Navy and lessons learned
- The mission of the Military Women’s Collective to create a supportive space for women veterans
- Addressing the confidence gap: why women should apply even when not 100% qualified
- The vital role of male allies in supporting women in and out of the military
- How programs like Four Block and The COMMIT Foundation are transforming the transition process
- Calls for volunteers, donations, and support to sustain the Military Women’s Collective
🎯 Actionable Steps for Viewers:
- Connect with Marina Rabinek on LinkedIn to learn more about her work.
- Support the Military Women’s Collective by volunteering your time, skills, or making a donation.
- Explore impactful programs like Four Block and the Commit Foundation to assist in your transition or support someone else.
- Share this episode to raise awareness about the challenges and opportunities for women veterans.
🎙️ About VET S.O.S.:
VET S.O.S. is a podcast dedicated to empowering the veteran community by connecting them with resources, insights, and inspiring stories. Hosted by Shawn Welsh and Mark Elder, VET S.O.S. is a must-listen for anyone passionate about supporting veterans and military families.
🔗 Helpful Links:
Military Women’s Collective: https://www.militarywomenscollective.org/
Four Block Career Readiness Program: https://fourblock.org/
The COMMIT Foundation – Pursue Your Purpose: https://www.commitfoundation.org/
Marina Rabinek’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-rabinek/
🌟 Follow Us and Subscribe:
Don't miss any future episodes of VET S.O.S. Subscribe now for more veteran-focused content, actionable advice, and inspiring stories!
#WomenVeterans #MilitaryTransition #VETSOS #Mentorship #Empowerment #DiversityAndInclusion #CareerReadiness #VeteranSupport #VeteranEmpowerment #MentorshipMatters #CommunityBuilding #WomenInLeadership

Maximize Your VA Benefits: Expert Advice from Veteran Advocate Jane Babcock Mar 06, 2023

Show notes

In this enlightening episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark sit down with Jane Babcock, a highly experienced veteran advocate with over two decades of dedication to helping veterans and military members navigate the complexities of VA benefits. Jane shares invaluable insights and actionable advice to ensure veterans maximize the benefits they have earned through their service.
Key Topics Covered:
The Role of Accredited Veteran Service Officers (VSOs):
Jane emphasizes the importance of working with accredited VSOs when applying for VA benefits. She warns about the risks of unaccredited services, which can be both costly and ineffective, and provides guidance on finding free, trustworthy support.
Challenges in Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life:
Veterans often face bureaucratic hurdles when transitioning, particularly in understanding their entitlements. Jane shares her personal experiences and the stories of veterans she’s helped, illustrating the importance of having proper documentation and accredited support.
VA Benefits and Resources:
Learn about the variety of resources available to veterans, including the GI Bill, Voc Rehab, and state-specific benefits like Wisconsin’s additional 128 GI Bill credits. Jane explains how veterans can use these programs for education, career development, or even starting a business.
Vocational Rehabilitation and Lifetime Benefits:
Jane discusses how veterans can leverage Voc Rehab benefits for career advancement and emphasizes that VA benefits are lifetime entitlements. She shares inspiring success stories, including a Korean War veteran who secured his benefits decades after service.
Advice for Veterans:
Jane encourages veterans to begin planning early, organize their paperwork, and seek guidance from local VSOs. She highlights the benefits of working with organizations like the VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, and DAV for comprehensive support.
Jane’s Key Message:
“Never fight the VA alone. Accredited help is essential for navigating the system and maximizing your benefits.”
Action Items for Viewers:
- Connect with Jane Babcock on LinkedIn to access her wealth of knowledge and free resources.
- Start planning early by gathering paperwork, organizing medical records, and exploring state and federal benefits.
- Reach out to your local VSO or accredited organizations for assistance.
📢 Don’t drown in the sea of transition! Grab the VET S.O.S. life preserver and let us guide you toward success.
📌 Resources & Links:
Connect with Jane Babcock: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janebabcock/
Follow VET S.O.S. for More Veteran Support:
Website: https://vetsospodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
#Veterans #VASupport #VSOs #GIBill #TransitionHelp #VETSOS #VeteranBenefits #MilitaryTransition #VeteranResources #VocationalRehabilitation

How Vets2Industry Empowers 75,000+ Veterans with Free Transition Resources Mar 06, 2023

Show notes

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Brian Arrington, a retired Air Force veteran who turned his frustration with the lack of transition resources into a game-changing organization: Vets2Industry. Brian's journey from discovering LinkedIn and the Veterans Mentor Network to founding an organization that serves nearly 75,000 members is a testament to the power of determination and community.
💡 Key Topics Covered
- The Birth of Vets2Industry: How Brian's realization of a critical knowledge gap during his transition inspired him to build a centralized resource hub with over 1,000 free resources, despite starting with no web development experience.
- The Power of Networking: Insights into the transformative role of platforms like LinkedIn, American Corporate Partners (ACP), and Onward to Opportunity in supporting service members.
- Pivoting During the Pandemic: How Vets2Industry adapted to virtual networking events with a dynamic format that includes keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and more.
- Impact and Growth: Brian shares how Vets2Industry has expanded its volunteer base, received a $25,000 sponsorship, and is now looking to go global to support service members worldwide.
- Entrepreneurial Insights: Brian discusses his experience at the Institute of Veterans and Military Families' (IVMF) entrepreneur boot camp, where he honed skills in Google Analytics, financial management, and more.
🛠 Actionable Takeaways
- Explore the Vets2Industry Resource Library: Access free resources for transitioning service members, veterans, and their families at Vets2Industry.com.
- Attend Virtual Networking Events: Connect with veteran-friendly employers, recruiters, and mentors through Vets2Industry's engaging virtual events.
- Support the Mission: Donate as an individual or sponsor Vets2Industry to help empower service members and their families.
- Spread the Word: Share the resource library with your command, host a lunch-and-learn, and encourage your peers to start networking early in their transition journey.
📢 Brian’s Vision for the Future
Vets2Industry is on a mission to make transition resources accessible to all. Brian is calling on the military community and beyond to join him in spreading awareness, contributing to the cause, and supporting Vets2Industry's ambitious plans for international expansion.
🎯 Get Involved
- Donate or Sponsor: Help Vets2Industry continue its mission to serve the military community.
- Purchase Vets2Industry Apparel: Represent the brand and show your support—custom sizes like 4XL extra-long are available!
Join the Vets2Industry Community: Become part of the movement by attending events, volunteering, and sharing resources.
📺 Subscribe for More Inspiring Stories
Don’t miss future episodes featuring incredible guests, organizations, and stories that empower veterans and their families. Like, share, and subscribe to help us spread the word.
#Veterans #Vets2Industry #TransitionResources #MilitarySupport #Networking #VETSOS #CareerDevelopment #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCommunity #Mentorship #VeteranSuccess

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