VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup

Shawn Welsh
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

VET S.O.S. – Veteran Entrepreneurial Spotlight highlights the journeys of veteran and veteran spouse entrepreneurs. Through candid conversations, we explore lessons learned, best practices, and resources that have shaped their paths to success. From overcoming challenges to leveraging military-honed skills, each episode delivers actionable insights and inspiration. Our mission is to educate and empower the next generation of veteran entrepreneurs, building a community driven by resilience, innovation, and service.

  1. From Navy Nuclear Operator to Entrepreneurial Impact

    9h ago

    From Navy Nuclear Operator to Entrepreneurial Impact

    Most veterans don't fail because they're unqualified—they fail because they wait too long to start. EPISODE PREMISE Mr. Whiskey didn't set out to become an entrepreneur. A Navy career, a difficult civilian work environment, and a growing desire to make a greater impact eventually pushed him toward building something of his own. In this conversation, he explains why purpose matters more than timing and why veterans often have everything they need to start long before they think they're ready. In this episode, you'll discover: • Identify the transition mistakes that cause many veterans to bounce between jobs after leaving the military • Avoid the costly entrepreneurship errors that come from rushing in without proper research • Understand why your military service should be part of your identity—not your entire identity • Learn why impact, service, and authentic connection matter more than chasing money first About Mr. Whiskey Mr. Whiskey is a United States Navy veteran and former Nuclear Operator who founded Couple O' Nukes, a self-improvement platform focused on mental health, addiction recovery, military life, and personal growth. Through podcasting, speaking, coaching, and writing, he helps individuals create meaningful change while building communities centered on service and impact. Featured Quote "The best time to plant an oak tree was fifty years ago. The second best time is today." If this episode helped you, please follow the show and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — open the app, search Operation Startup, scroll down, and tap "Write a Review." It takes 30 seconds and puts this show in front of a veteran who needs it right now. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction01:32 - Why Veterans Struggle After Transition03:02 - Identity Beyond Military Service06:35 - Building a Mission-Driven Business16:28 - The Hardest Part of Entrepreneurship28:31 - Advice for Future Veteran Entrepreneurs31:45 - Closing & Resources Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network: ▶ VET S.O.S.▶ Operation Startup▶ Learning Lifeline▶ The Scoop▶ Testimony Strong Connect with VET S.O.S. Website: vetsospodcast.comX: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS#VeteranPodcast#OperationStartup#MilitaryTransition#VeteranEntrepreneur #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP

    32 min
  2. Military Transition Done Right: Natalie Schibell on Career Strategy & Veteran Entrepreneurship

    May 21

    Military Transition Done Right: Natalie Schibell on Career Strategy & Veteran Entrepreneurship

    Description: Natalie Schibell joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into military transition strategy and veteran career development. A former Navy Lieutenant Commander turned founder, she shares how pivoting multiple times shaped her path into entrepreneurship and national veteran advocacy. In this episode, we explore: • Why transition planning must start early• How the Reserve Component can provide financial and career security• The reality of pivoting in corporate America• Why veterans should gain experience before launching a business• How to build a sustainable career roadmap Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, or exploring your next career move, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest: Natalie Schibell is a former U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander and founder of Mission to Commission and Commission to Transition. She specializes in military career strategy, resume development, leadership growth, and helping veterans successfully navigate career pivots and entrepreneurship. Grab the Lifeline: The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes: VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline (Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents The Scoop Connect with VET S.O.S.: Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS#OperationStartup#MilitaryTransition#VeteranCareer#VeteranEntrepreneur#NavyOfficer#CareerPivot#VeteranResources#TransitionStrategy#GrabTheLifeline

    28 min
  3. From Army Veteran to Cybersecurity Founder | Chris McKeithen’s Entrepreneur Journey

    May 14

    From Army Veteran to Cybersecurity Founder | Chris McKeithen’s Entrepreneur Journey

    Description: Chris McKeithen joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into military transition, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity innovation. In this episode, we explore how Chris went from an unexpected separation from the Army to building AEGIS Cyber Defense—a platform helping businesses identify vulnerabilities before cyber attackers strike. In this episode, we explore:• Lessons from transitioning without a roadmap• How to identify gaps in an industry and build a business around them• Overcoming fear, rejection, and imposter syndrome as an entrepreneur Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, pursuing higher education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest: Chris McKeithen is a U.S. Army combat veteran and CEO of AEGIS Cyber Defense. After leaving the military in 2013, he built a successful corporate career before launching his own cybersecurity company focused on protecting small and mid-sized businesses. He is also a strong advocate for helping veterans enter the cybersecurity field. Grab the Lifeline: The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. Explore More Episodes: VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation StartupVET S.O.S. Presents: Learning LifelineVET S.O.S. Presents: The ScoopVET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong Connect with VET S.O.S.: Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #CyberSecurity #EntrepreneurLife #VeteranOwned #StartupStory #CyberAwareness #GrabTheLifeline

    25 min
  4. From Army Officer to Land Investor: Brent Bowers on Building Passive Income

    May 7

    From Army Officer to Land Investor: Brent Bowers on Building Passive Income

    Description:Brent Bowers joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into land investing and building passive income while transitioning out of the military. In this episode, we explore:• Creating a 3-year exit strategy from military service• Building income through vacant land investing• Scaling into manufactured housing for higher returns Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, pursuing higher education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest:Brent Bowers is a former Army officer and real estate investor who specializes in land investing and development. He now coaches others on how to build passive income streams and achieve financial freedom through real estate. Grab the Lifeline:The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes:VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline (Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents The Scoop Connect with VET S.O.S.:Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #LandInvesting #PassiveIncome #MilitaryTransition #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #VeteranSuccess #GrabTheLifeline

    21 min
  5. Strategic Life Planning & Veteran Entrepreneurship | David Howe

    Apr 30

    Strategic Life Planning & Veteran Entrepreneurship | David Howe

    Description:David Howe joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into strategic life planning and share insights on military transition, entrepreneurship, and leadership. In this episode, we explore: • Why veterans must move beyond tactical transition steps and build a long-term life strategy• How mentorship and preparation create smoother transitions into civilian careers• Lessons from entrepreneurship, setbacks, and building purpose-driven businesses Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, pursuing higher education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest:David Howe is a retired Army Colonel and former Deloitte consultant who now leads KHS Solutions and supports the Comfort, Peace, and Freedom Foundation. He specializes in life planning, leadership development, and helping veterans and families create meaningful, purpose-driven futures. Grab the Lifeline:The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes:VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline (Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents The Scoop Connect with VET S.O.S.:Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #LifePlanning #VeteranLeadership #EntrepreneurJourney #TransitionSuccess #VeteranResources #GrabTheLifeline

    27 min
  6. Building Impact Through Military Entrepreneurship | Isabel Garcia Schmitt

    Apr 23

    Building Impact Through Military Entrepreneurship | Isabel Garcia Schmitt

    Description: Isabel Garcia Schmitt joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into military spouse entrepreneurship, PCS relocation challenges, and building businesses that create real community impact. In this episode, we explore:• Transitioning from military service into entrepreneurship• Creating purpose-driven businesses that serve others• Overcoming burnout and leadership challenges• Leveraging veteran and spouse resources for success Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, pursuing higher education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest: Isabel Garcia Schmitt is a U.S. Army veteran, military spouse, and co-founder of LOGSA Mil Moves. She is also the founder of Guerrero Leather and a recognized advocate for military spouse entrepreneurship, recently named the 2026 Army Spouse of the Year. Grab the Lifeline: The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes: VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline (Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents The Scoop Connect with VET S.O.S.: Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitarySpouse #OperationStartup #MilitaryTransition #Entrepreneurship #VeteranSupport #SmallBusiness #Leadership #PCS

    20 min
  7. From Army Colonel to Entrepreneur | David Fivecoat on Leadership & Risk

    Apr 16

    From Army Colonel to Entrepreneur | David Fivecoat on Leadership & Risk

    Description: David Fivecoat joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into the realities of transitioning from military service into entrepreneurship and share insights on leadership, risk tolerance, and building a business from scratch. In this episode, we explore:• Key transition lessons every service member should know• The importance of financial preparation and planning ahead• How military leadership translates into business success• Why entrepreneurship requires patience, resilience, and adaptability Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, pursuing higher education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest: David Fivecoat is a retired U.S. Army Colonel and founder of Fivecoat Consulting Group. With over two decades of leadership experience, he now helps organizations develop stronger leaders through coaching, training, and battlefield-based leadership programs. Grab the Lifeline: The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes: VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline (Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents The Scoop Connect with VET S.O.S.: Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #EntrepreneurMindset #VeteranBusiness #TransitionSuccess #StartupJourney #GrabTheLifeline

    24 min
  8. From Disability to Innovation with Douglas Katz

    Apr 9

    From Disability to Innovation with Douglas Katz

    Description: Douglas Katz joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into entrepreneurship through adaptive innovation and share insights on military transition, identity, and building meaningful businesses. In this episode, we explore: • The biggest mistakes veterans make during transition• How the Ability Curve redefines disability and opportunity• Why building the right team is critical to entrepreneurial success Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, pursuing higher education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest: Douglas Katz is a West Point graduate, Army veteran, and entrepreneur. He is the inventor of the NULU adaptive knife and creator of the Ability Curve framework, helping redefine disability, innovation, and human potential. Grab the Lifeline: The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes: VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline (Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents The Scoop Connect with VET S.O.S.: Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #StartupLife #AdaptiveDesign #VeteranCommunity #Entrepreneurship #LeadershipDevelopment #Innovation #GrabTheLifeline #OperationStartup

    27 min
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VET S.O.S. – Veteran Entrepreneurial Spotlight highlights the journeys of veteran and veteran spouse entrepreneurs. Through candid conversations, we explore lessons learned, best practices, and resources that have shaped their paths to success. From overcoming challenges to leveraging military-honed skills, each episode delivers actionable insights and inspiration. Our mission is to educate and empower the next generation of veteran entrepreneurs, building a community driven by resilience, innovation, and service.

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