VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

K9Heroes4Heroes: Transforming Veterans' Lives with Service Dogs Mar 06, 2023

Show notes

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Joe Gionti, founder of K9Heroes4Heroes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the lives of veterans and first responders by providing expertly trained service dogs. Whether it’s helping with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or other service-related disabilities, K9Heroes4Heroes is making a profound impact through compassionate care and tailored support.
Joe shares his personal journey, including his deep respect for the military and first responder communities, and how his family's military background inspired him to take action. He dives into the meticulous process of training and matching dogs to handlers, partnering with American Canine Dynamics and their head trainer, Travis Lloyd, to ensure the perfect fit for each individual.
💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- The step-by-step process of evaluating, training, and pairing service dogs with handlers based on their specific needs and personalities.
- The growing demand for service dogs and the challenges of starting and running a nonprofit organization.
- How K9Heroes4Heroes collaborates nationally and internationally to support veterans and first responders.
- The importance of understanding ADA regulations for service dogs and ensuring handlers’ rights are protected.
- Joe’s future vision for the organization, including plans to hire veterans and first responders as trainers and expand their reach.
📣 How You Can Help:
- Donate: Your contributions directly support the training and placement of service dogs with those who need them most.
- Volunteer: From helping at events to sharing their mission, there are many ways to get involved.
- Spread the Word: Share this episode and raise awareness about the life-changing impact of service dogs.
🌐 Get Connected:
👉 Visit their website for more information: https://k9heroes4heroes.com/
👉 Follow K9Heroes4Heroes on social media for updates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/k9h4h/posts/?feedView=all
👉 Contact Joe if you or someone you know is a veteran or first responder in need of a service dog.
📌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with more inspiring stories and resources from the VET S.O.S. Podcast!
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know how service dogs have impacted your life or someone you know.
#ServiceDogs #Veterans #FirstResponders #PTSDSupport #K9Heroes4Heroes #VETSOS #Nonprofit #MentalHealthSupport #VeteransSupport #PTSDAwareness #NonprofitOrganization #DisabilitySupport #MilitaryCommunity

Mastering Military to Civilian Transition: Networking, ATS Tips, and Career Strategies Mar 06, 2023

Show notes

Join Shawn Welsh and Mark Elder on this insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. Show as they dive into the essential strategies and resources for a successful transition from military to civilian life. Gain expert advice on navigating the complexities of the current labor market, building a standout LinkedIn profile, and overcoming challenges with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Discover actionable tips for effective networking, personalized follow-ups using video tools like BombBomb, and the importance of continuous learning in your career journey.
This episode features Shawn sharing his personal experiences of rediscovering individuality and targeting networking efforts, while Mark emphasizes the power of community and vulnerability in career success.
Key takeaways include optimizing your resume for ATS, leveraging video messages to stand out, and understanding the long-term benefits of maintaining professional connections. Whether you're actively seeking a new career or looking to enhance your professional presence, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration for veterans and job seekers alike.
Don't miss this engaging and informative discussion that will equip you with the tools to take control of your transition journey. Tune in now and start building the career you deserve! Check out BombBomb at https://bombbomb.com/. #vetsos #MilitaryTransition #Veterans #CareerChange #NetworkingTips #LinkedInStrategies #JobSearch #VeteranSupport #CareerDevelopment #JobSearchTips #ProfessionalGrowth

From Navy to Career Coach: Alfredo Torres on Mental Health, Networking & Transition Success Feb 27, 2023

Show notes

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Alfredo Torres, a 13-year Navy veteran and the Virginia v3 Transitional Regional Coordinator for Central and Western Regions. Alfredo shares his remarkable journey of transitioning from military life to a diverse civilian career, including roles as a radio personality, EMT, academic advisor, blogger, and career coach.
Alfredo opens up about the mental health challenges he faced during his transition, shedding light on the societal expectations placed on veterans and the need for vulnerability. He emphasizes the importance of identifying skills that go beyond military roles and using available resources to build a tailored transition plan.
🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ The critical role of mental health and vulnerability during the transition process.
✅ How veterans can recognize and leverage their transferable skills beyond MOS codes.
✅ The importance of practice, preparation, passion, positivity, and smiling in job interviews.
✅ Insights into the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) program, which helps companies become veteran-friendly and connects service members with those employers.
✅ How to network effectively and build professional relationships through programs like Vets2Industry.
Alfredo also uses the analogy of a “transition buffet,” encouraging veterans to select and combine resources that align with their unique needs and career goals. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Vets2Industry networking event, describing its purpose, structure, and the immense value it offers to veterans looking to expand their networks.
📌 Key Takeaways:
- Don’t let pride or fear stop you from seeking help and starting fresh.
- Utilize resources like Vets2Industry and the V3 program to guide your journey.
- Practice and preparation are essential to nailing interviews and making lasting professional connections.
- Networking is about building relationships, not just handing out resumes.
💡 Episode Highlights:
- Mental health and societal expectations on transitioning veterans.
- The evolving culture of vulnerability and mentorship in the veteran community.
- Using a "transition buffet" approach to craft a personalized transition plan.
- Why networking and relationship-building are critical to success after service.
💬 Connect with Us:
Connect with Alfredo Torres on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfredotorres1/
Learn more about Vets2Industry: https://vets2industry.org/
Explore the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) program: https://dvsv3.com/
🛑 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories and resources to support veterans and their families. Your journey doesn’t have to be walked alone—find the support and tools you need to succeed here!
#Veterans #MilitaryTransition #VETSOS #Networking #CareerSuccess #MentalHealth #VirginiaV3 #VetResources #VeteranSupport #Vets2Industry

Empowering Veterans & Military Spouses: Brett Currier on High-Income Careers with VetGigs Feb 27, 2023

Show notes

Join us for a deep dive into the mission-driven journey of Brett Currier, founder and CEO of VetGigs, a revolutionary talent marketplace designed to empower veterans and military spouses. With 12 years of service in the Army National Guard, including tours in Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn, Brett combines his military experience and consulting expertise from Deloitte and Huron Consulting Group to bridge the gap between military and civilian careers.
In this episode, Brett opens up about the personal losses that inspired his mission to help veterans find purpose and success in the civilian workforce. VetGigs provides free profiles and job listings focused on high-income, long-term freelance projects in technology and consulting. Brett discusses the challenges veterans face in translating military experience into civilian roles and highlights practical solutions to make career transitions smoother and more effective.
Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
✅ The challenges of reframing military experience for civilian job applications and interviews.
✅ The importance of targeted certifications and training programs, such as those from Google and Coursera, to build relevant skills.
✅ How VetGigs simplifies the freelancing process, offering a streamlined platform for agreements, payments, and connections.
✅ Collaboration between VetGigs and veteran-focused organizations to provide holistic career support.
✅ Financial resources like the Veterans Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP) to fund certifications and training.
✅ Why adaptability, professional development, and community are critical for veterans seeking meaningful careers.
Special Insights from Brett:
Brett shares his unique approach to creating a co-op of veteran support organizations, each with specialized services, to deliver end-to-end support for veterans. He emphasizes the importance of partnerships and resource sharing to make a broader impact on the veteran community.
Action Items for Our Audience:
📌 Explore the VetGigs Platform: Create your free profile today and start accessing high-income freelance opportunities.
📌 Learn About VRAP: Investigate the Veterans Rapid Retraining Assistance Program to fund your certifications and training.
📌 Connect with VetGigs: Reach out to discuss potential collaborations with veteran support organizations.
About VetGigs:
VetGigs is a talent marketplace exclusively for veterans and military spouses, offering access to high-income freelance projects in technology and consulting. The platform is free for veterans and simplifies the freelancing process to make career transitions easier and more rewarding.
📢 Support the Mission:
Like, comment, and share this episode to spread the word about VetGigs and help more veterans and military spouses find meaningful careers. Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories, practical advice, and resources to support the veteran community.
💡 Veterans deserve better. Let’s build a brighter future together.
#Veterans #VetGigs #CareerTransition #MilitarySpouses #VeteranSupport #FreelanceCareers #VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #TechJobs #Certifications #VeteranEmployment

Mastering Military Transition: Overcoming Challenges, Building Networks, and Finding Purpose Feb 27, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we’re honored to host Don Gleason, a seasoned leader with 40 years of experience in environmental and leadership roles, including 27 years in the United States Air Force. Don is a passionate advocate for helping service members transition into civilian life with confidence and purpose.
🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
1️⃣ The Challenges of Transition: Don dives into the common struggles veterans face, such as identity crises, mental health issues, and imposter syndrome. He shares eye-opening research about the critical period when veterans are most vulnerable during their transition.
2️⃣ Mastermind Support with MTR: Learn how the Military Transition Roundtable (MTR) uses a mastermind approach to provide guidance, mentorship, and community support. Don explains how veterans can overcome self-doubt and move forward with actionable steps.
3️⃣ The Importance of Relationships and Associations: Don emphasizes the value of joining professional associations in your desired career field and building relationships with industry leaders even before leaving the military.
4️⃣ Mental Health and Awareness: Discover Don’s initiatives, such as his 50-mile ruck march, to raise funds and awareness for soldier suicide prevention.
5️⃣ Coaching and Mentoring: Find out how coaching and mentoring can help veterans tackle subconscious fears, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome.
💬 Key Takeaways from Don’s Insights:
- Transition is not just about finding a job—it’s about rediscovering your purpose and building a new identity.
- Joining civilian professional associations offers networking opportunities and insider knowledge about your target industry.
- Vulnerability and self-awareness are strengths, not weaknesses, during your transition.
📌 Take Action Today:
✔️ Attend Don’s Webinar: Don’t miss his free session on Imposter Syndrome on June 7th at 5 PM Central—a must-attend event for transitioning veterans.
✔️ Join Professional Associations: Get involved in a civilian organization related to your career interests to build connections and gain valuable insights.
✔️ Start Networking Early: Build relationships with industry leaders and mentors to make your transition smoother and more impactful.
🔗 Resources and Links:
- Learn more about the Military Transition Roundtable (MTR): https://www.militarytransitionroundtable.com/
- Register for Don’s Webinar on Imposter Syndrome: https://achievenewheights.com/
- Connect with Don Gleason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-gleason/
🎥 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for More:
Like this episode? Give it a thumbs up, hit subscribe, and share it with your network to help spread the word about valuable veteran transition resources.
#MilitaryTransition #Veterans #LeadershipDevelopment #MentalHealth #VETSOS #Mentorship
#VeteranSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #ImposterSyndrome #VeteranResources #MentorshipMatters #ProfessionalNetworking #MilitaryVeterans

Transforming Military Transitions: Mastermind Strategies with Matt Scherer & MTR Success Stories Feb 27, 2023

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Matt Scherer, co-founder of the Military Transition Roundtable (MTR), as he shares how MTR is transforming the way military professionals transition into civilian careers. Learn about MTR's mastermind concept, the importance of collaborative support, and how MTR is addressing challenges like veteran unemployment and career alignment. Discover actionable strategies for leveraging LinkedIn, negotiating job offers, and building a network that works for you.
With 66 graduates and a proven track record of higher job retention rates, MTR is creating pathways for success and entrepreneurial opportunities. Hear compelling success stories, including members landing roles at top organizations like Amazon Web Services, and insights into how MTR is expanding its reach globally. Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran, or someone looking to support the military community, this episode offers valuable resources and motivation to take the next step.
Find out how you can connect, support, and be part of the mission to empower veterans and their families. Don’t miss this episode packed with inspiration and tools for success! Check out Military Transition Roundtable at https://www.militarytransitionroundtable.com/ #vetsos #VeteranTransition #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranSupport #CareerDevelopment #NetworkingSuccess #LinkedInTips #Entrepreneurship #MilitaryCommunity #JobSearchStrategies
#VeteranEmpowerment

VET S.O.S. Episode 1: Career Transition Strategies for Veterans, Networking Tips, and Resources Feb 23, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to the inaugural episode of VET S.O.S., where hosts Mark and Shawn bring you actionable insights and resources to help veterans, active duty service members, and their families successfully transition into civilian careers.
In this episode, you’ll meet our hosts:
- Shawn Welsh, an active duty Army intelligence analyst preparing for separation after 19 years of service, who shares his journey and the challenges he’s faced in navigating the transition process.
- Mark, a former Air Force medic who has successfully transitioned to the civilian workforce and is passionate about helping others do the same.
Together, they discuss the challenges veterans face during their transition and offer practical advice on:
- Building Your Network: Leveraging the "who you know" concept to uncover hidden opportunities.
- Crafting Resumes and LinkedIn Profiles: Tips for showcasing your military experience in a way that resonates with civilian employers.
- Mastering Interviewing Skills: Translating military accomplishments into relatable civilian terms to ace your next interview.
- Utilizing Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs): Discovering both well-known and underutilized resources that provide support tailored to your needs.
Special Features of the Show:
- Future Guests: Get ready for expert insights from experts in military transition.
- Success Stories: Celebrate veterans who have landed new roles and learn from their experiences.
- Community Engagement: Opportunities for audience shout-outs, giveaways, and job postings.
Action Items for Viewers:
- Engage with Us: Share your job preferences, specialties, or current location in the comments.
- Connect with VSOs: If you’re involved with a VSO and want to share your mission, reach out to be a guest on a future episode.
- Spread the Word: Use #VETSOS on social media to connect with the community and share this valuable resource.
Why Tune In?
- Transitioning from military to civilian life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. - VET S.O.S. provides the resources, advice, and connections you need to make your next career move with confidence.
Don’t Miss Out!
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. today and hit the notification bell to stay updated on new episodes.
Follow us for upcoming content, including expert advice, practical tools, and a community of support.
💬 Let’s Start the Conversation: Comment below with your thoughts, questions, or success stories. Together, we can empower the veteran community to achieve career success!
#VETSOS #Veterans #CareerTransition #Networking #MilitaryToCivilian #JobSearch #VeteranSupport #CareerResources #MilitaryLife #VeteranCommunity

VET S.O.S. Introduction Feb 20, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to the VET S.O.S. Podcast!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected