VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup

Maurice Murphy, 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. 3d ago

    How Purpose Fuels a Successful Veteran Business — Rob & Mel, MELT Beauty

    Your military mission may end—but your purpose doesn't. Here's how one veteran built a business that changes lives. EPISODE PREMISE Leaving the military teaches you discipline, leadership, and resilience—but it doesn't teach you how to build a company from scratch. In this conversation, Army and Navy veteran Rob and entrepreneur Mel share how personal adversity led them to create MELT Beauty Company, where restoring confidence became a mission greater than making money. Their story proves that entrepreneurship isn't about chasing profits—it's about solving meaningful problems for people who need you most. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn why veterans must replace military SOPs with adaptability when building a business. • Avoid one of the biggest startup mistakes by learning how to grow inventory without destroying your cash flow. • Understand how Mel transformed her own alopecia journey into a business that restores confidence for others. • Discover why building relationships—not transactions—has become the foundation of their company's success. About Rob & Mel Rob is a retired Navy and Army veteran whose military career shaped his commitment to service and leadership. Today he serves as COO of MELT Beauty Company, helping veterans, cancer survivors, and individuals experiencing hair loss regain confidence through personalized support. Mel is an experienced entrepreneur, beauty professional, and founder of MELT Beauty Company. Inspired by her own battle with alopecia, she has built a company focused on compassion, education, and helping every client rediscover confidence. 🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your review helps another veteran, transitioning service member, or military spouse discover resources that could change their future. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction 01:40 — Military Transition & Entrepreneurship 03:53 — The Story Behind MELT Beauty Company 09:25 — Startup Lessons & Financial Challenges 14:06 — Building a Business Around Service 19:41 — Closing & Resources Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network ▶ VET S.O.S. — Flagship Show ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Learning Lifeline ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong Connect with VET S.O.S. Website: https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter/X: https://x.com/vetsospodcast LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranPodcast #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #Podcast #Veterans #SmallBusiness

    How Purpose Fuels a Successful Veteran Business — Rob & Mel, MELT Beauty

  2. Sep 24

    Why Veteran-Owned Businesses Win More Government Contracts – Mark Barlet

    Most veterans miss the biggest advantage they already earned. Mark explains how to use it to build a business. EPISODE PREMISE Many veterans assume the hardest part of entrepreneurship is coming up with a business idea. Mark Barlet argues the real challenge is learning how the civilian business world actually works—and using the unique advantages veterans already have. His journey from Air Force veteran to accessibility pioneer includes lessons that could save new entrepreneurs years of frustration. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn how veteran-owned business certifications can dramatically increase government contracting opportunities. • Avoid the leadership mistakes that cause many veteran-run businesses to struggle with employee turnover. • Understand why military work ethic remains one of the greatest competitive advantages in business. • Discover why mentors—and the humility to learn from them—accelerate entrepreneurial success. About Mark Barlet Mark Barlet is a United States Air Force service-disabled veteran and Co-Founder & COO of Access Forge. After leading AbleGamers for two decades, he now helps organizations create accessible experiences for people with disabilities while advising government agencies and major institutions on accessibility strategy. 🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your review helps more veterans, military spouses, and transitioning service members discover conversations that can change their future. ⏱️ EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction 01:47 - Three Lessons from Military Transition 03:16 - Turning Veteran Status into Business Opportunity 06:37 - Building Teams That Want to Stay 07:44 - Why Military Leadership Doesn't Always Translate 11:29 - Veteran Resources Every Entrepreneur Should Use 14:07 - Building Access Forge 16:23 - Stop Waiting for Permission 17:18 - Closing & Resources 🎧 Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network ▶ VET S.O.S. — Flagship Show ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Learning Lifeline ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong 🔗 Connect with VET S.O.S. Website: https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter: https://x.com/vetsospodcast LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranPodcast #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition

    Why Veteran-Owned Businesses Win More Government Contracts – Mark Barlet

  3. Sep 17

    The Biggest Entrepreneurial Risk Is Never Taking One – Mike Caimona

    Most veterans fear failure. Mike Caimona says the biggest mistake is never taking the risk. Leaving the military doesn't mean leaving your leadership behind—but it does mean learning how to adapt it. Former U.S. Navy officer and entrepreneur Mike Caimona shares why transitioning into the startup world required a completely different mindset, how he built organizations with purpose, and why the veterans who regret entrepreneurship are usually the ones who never tried. Instead of chasing the "safe" path, Mike chose uncertainty, built companies from the ground up, and now leads organizations dedicated to helping veterans and their families find purpose through career transition, post-traumatic growth, and music therapy. His advice is practical, honest, and rooted in decades of leadership. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn why successful military transition requires adapting your leadership style—not abandoning your military values. • Understand why "intellect doesn't wear rank" became Mike's most valuable lesson in the civilian business world. • Discover what real entrepreneurial risk looks like when payroll depends on one customer paying an invoice. • Hear why Mike believes nearly every entrepreneur learns more from taking the chance than from playing it safe—and why regret is often the biggest failure of all. About Mike Caimona Mike Caimona is a former U.S. Navy officer who served as both an enlisted Sailor and commissioned officer before launching a career leading startups across aerospace, defense, technology, and the nonprofit sector. He currently serves as CEO of Camp Southern Ground, founded by Zac Brown, and is the founder of Warrior Music Foundation, helping veterans heal through music therapy and community. 🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your review helps more veterans, military spouses, and entrepreneurs discover these stories and reminds every listener that no one transitions alone. 🎧 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: https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter/X: https://x.com/vetsospodcast LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #OperationStartup #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #VeteranBusiness #Podcast #Veterans #MilitaryLife

    The Biggest Entrepreneurial Risk Is Never Taking One – Mike Caimona

  4. Sep 10

    From Aircraft Electrician to Author: Francine Juhlin's Reinvention

    Your military career ends. Your identity doesn't—and that's where your next mission begins. EPISODE PREMISE Too many veterans believe their job title is their identity. Army and Navy veteran Francine Juhlin shares how retirement, arthritis, and uncertainty forced her to reinvent herself—and why those same lessons can help anyone facing a major life transition. Instead of chasing another government position, she built a business around confidence, storytelling, and helping families grow stronger together. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn how to separate your identity from your military career and confidently embrace your next chapter. • Apply Lean Six Sigma and continuous improvement principles to personal growth instead of just business. • Discover how a publishing setback became the catalyst for an entirely new entrepreneurial journey. • Understand why building confident children today creates healthier adults tomorrow. About Francine Juhlin Francine Juhlin is both a U.S. Navy and U.S. Army veteran who later worked as an aircraft electrician in government contracting and civil service. Combining her experience in Lean Six Sigma, change management, and leadership, she now helps individuals and families navigate change through books, coaching, podcasts, and educational content designed to build lifelong confidence. 🎙️ If this episode encouraged you, please follow VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Every review helps another veteran discover stories, resources, and hope for their own transition. ⏱️ EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction 02:00 — Losing an Identity Built on Military Service 03:36 — Why Entrepreneurship Became the Only Option 06:15 — Creating the Camp Confidence Book Series 08:24 — Learning Technology, AI, and Continuous Improvement 10:09 — Finding the Right Community 13:45 — Storytelling That Changes Lives 18:05 — A Reader's Life Changed Forever 20:21 — Closing & Lifeline Message 🎧 Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network ▶ VET S.O.S. — Flagship Show ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Learning Lifeline ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong Website:https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter:@vetsospodcast LinkedIn:https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube:https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook:https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram:https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok:https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #HeroesMediaGRP #GrabTheLifeline #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur

    From Aircraft Electrician to Author: Francine Juhlin's Reinvention

  5. Sep 3

    Veterans Are Built to Be Entrepreneurs — Kevin Capozzoli, Army Veteran

    Most veterans can build a business. The hardest part isn't skill—it's taking the first step. EPISODE PREMISE Many veterans leave military service believing the safest path is government work or contracting. Kevin Capozzoli chose something different. After serving 25 years in the Army, he intentionally spent three years preparing to become an entrepreneur, building a roadmap that allowed him to leave military service with purpose instead of uncertainty. If you've ever wondered whether entrepreneurship is worth the risk, Kevin shares the mindset, financial planning, and practical decisions that made it possible. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn how to prepare years before military retirement for entrepreneurship. • Understand why financial planning is just as important as your business idea. • Recognize why imposter syndrome affects nearly every new entrepreneur—and how to push through it. • Discover how one graduate program helped transform an idea into a venture-backed defense company. About Kevin Capozzoli Kevin Capozzoli served 25 years in the U.S. Army before becoming Co-Founder of Critical Materials Group. His company is helping strengthen America's defense industrial base by expanding domestic explosives manufacturing, while his background in technology commercialization gives him a unique perspective on building businesses that solve national security challenges. If this episode helped you, please follow the show and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your review helps more veterans, service members, and military families discover conversations that could change the direction of their transition. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction 01:12 — Planning Retirement Three Years Early 04:08 — Why Kevin Chose Entrepreneurship 08:24 — The Reality of Building a Business 11:28 — Why Veterans Fear Entrepreneurship 16:31 — Building Critical Materials Group 20:29 — Closing & Resources Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network ▶ VET S.O.S. — Flagship Show ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Learning Lifeline ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong Connect with VET S.O.S. Website:https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter:https://twitter.com/vetsospodcast LinkedIn:https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube:https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook:https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram:https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok:https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranPodcast #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #Veterans #MilitaryLife #Podcast

    Veterans Are Built to Be Entrepreneurs — Kevin Capozzoli, Army Veteran

  6. Aug 27

    From Navy Senior Chief to Purpose-Driven Entrepreneur – Jason Garcia

    The biggest mistake veterans make after leaving the military is waiting for the perfect plan. Episode Premise Retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief Jason Garcia discovered that military transition doesn't come with a roadmap. Instead of chasing the biggest paycheck, he built Bull Squid Studios around service, creativity, and giving back. His story shows why purpose—not profit—can become the strongest foundation for entrepreneurship. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn why asking for help is one of the most valuable transition skills veterans can develop. • Understand how Jason transformed a lifelong passion for graphic design into a purpose-driven business. • Discover why Bull Squid Studios focuses on creating meaningful keepsakes instead of maximizing profits. • Hear Jason's practical advice on embracing failure, getting uncomfortable, and finally taking action. About Jason Garcia Jason Garcia retired from the U.S. Navy after serving 21 years as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. He now owns Bull Squid Studios LLC, creating custom challenge coins, laser engraving, logos, and military keepsakes while continuing to support active-duty sailors as a civilian engineer. His passion is helping veterans preserve memories and serve their communities through meaningful craftsmanship. 🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. It only takes a few seconds and helps another veteran discover resources that could change their transition journey. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction 01:19 — Jason's Transition Story 03:16 — Starting Bull Squid Studios 06:15 — Building a Mission Before Profit 08:28 — Overcoming Entrepreneurial Challenges 11:19 — Turning Ideas into Reality 17:08 — Advice for Veteran Entrepreneurs 19:06 — Closing & Resources Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network ▶ VET S.O.S. ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Learning Lifeline ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong Connect with VET S.O.S. Website:https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter/X:https://x.com/vetsospodcast LinkedIn:https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube:https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook:https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram:https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok:https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranPodcast #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #Podcast #Veterans #MilitaryLife

    From Navy Senior Chief to Purpose-Driven Entrepreneur – Jason Garcia

  7. Aug 20

    The Truth About VA Home Loans Most Veterans Never Hear – Jason Sharon

    Most VA loan denials aren't final. Jason Sharon explains why veterans hear "no"—and how to turn it into a "yes." Many veterans believe a denied VA loan means the end of the road. In this episode of Operation Startup, 20-year U.S. Navy veteran and mortgage broker Jason Sharon explains why that's often not true. Drawing on his experience as a former nuclear engineer and owner of Home Loans Inc., Jason breaks down the myths surrounding VA loans, the mindset that carried him from military service into entrepreneurship, and why understanding the guidelines can make all the difference. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn why many VA loan applications are denied unnecessarily—and how the right lender can save the deal. • Understand how military values like discipline, respect, and accountability continue to drive success long after transition. • Discover the hiring system Jason uses to build a dependable "work family" and avoid costly hiring mistakes. • Hear why he believes The E-Myth Revisited is the most important business book every aspiring entrepreneur should read. About Jason Sharon Jason Sharon is a 20-year U.S. Navy veteran who served as a nuclear engineer before transitioning into the mortgage industry. Today, he is the Owner and Broker of Home Loans Inc. in Charleston, South Carolina, specializing in VA loans, first-time homebuyers, and investment property financing across the Southeast. Jason is also the author of five mortgage books and has been featured as a mortgage expert by Forbes, Yahoo Finance, and Money.com. 🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your review helps us reach more veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses, and entrepreneurs looking for trusted guidance and real-world experience. Resources Mentioned The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. GerberHome Loans Inc.VA Home Loan Program Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network ▶ VET S.O.S. — Flagship Show ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Learning Lifeline ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong Connect with VET S.O.S. Website: https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter/X: @vetsospodcast LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranPodcast #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP #OperationStartup #VALoan #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition

    The Truth About VA Home Loans Most Veterans Never Hear – Jason Sharon

  8. Aug 13

    From Military Leader to Entrepreneur: Build Purpose After Service — Manny Piñeiro

    Military retirement isn't the hardest transition—losing your purpose is. Here's how to build your next mission. Many veterans spend decades following a clear mission, only to discover that the hardest part begins after the uniform comes off. Air Force veteran and executive coach Manny Piñeiro shares why purpose—not employment—is the key to a successful transition, and how one conversation with his son inspired him to build Making Time Count, a leadership company now impacting organizations around the world. From overcoming the fear of failure to redefining success beyond rank and title, this conversation offers practical wisdom for veterans, entrepreneurs, and leaders preparing for what's next. In this episode, you'll discover: • Learn the three biggest lessons Manny says every service member needs before transitioning into civilian life. • Recognize why accepting the first job offer can cost you purpose, fulfillment, and long-term career growth. • Understand how an unexpected cancer diagnosis reshaped Manny's priorities and reinforced the importance of taking care of yourself before chasing the next opportunity. • Discover why organizations lose great employees—and what authentic leadership looks like when people become the mission. About Manny Piñeiro Manny Piñeiro served 32 years in the United States Air Force, culminating as the Air Force's First Sergeant Special Duty Manager, where he helped shape leadership policy, training, and standards affecting more than 600,000 Airmen and their families worldwide. Today he is the founder of Making Time Count, an executive coaching and leadership development company helping leaders, organizations, and veterans maximize their impact through purposeful leadership. As a member of the USO Board of Directors, he continues serving the military community while delivering keynote presentations on leadership, resilience, accountability, and human performance across the globe. 🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction 00:15 — Manny's Military Journey 03:15 — The Three Biggest Lessons About Military Transition 07:32 — Launching Making Time Count 12:03 — Helping Leaders Rediscover Purpose 14:54 — The Reality of Entrepreneurship 19:05 — Building Better Organizations 25:45 — Advice Every Veteran Should Hear 30:07 — Closing & Resources Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network ▶ VET S.O.S. ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Learning Lifeline ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop ▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong Connect with VET S.O.S. Website: https://vetsospodcast.com Twitter/X: https://x.com/vetsospodcast LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranPodcast #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEntrepreneur #Podcast #Veterans #MilitaryLife

    From Military Leader to Entrepreneur: Build Purpose After Service — Manny Piñeiro
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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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