VET S.O.S. Podcast

Shawn Welsh, Keith Cassant, Eric Brew, Mark Elder; Hira Paulin; Kingsley Scott
  • 4.9 (11)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

VET S.O.S. is a military transition focused organization dedicated to helping service members, veterans, and military families navigate transition and thrive in civilian life. Through four targeted shows, we deliver resources, insights, and inspiration: Military Transition Resources Show shares tools and programs for a smoother transition; Veteran Entrepreneurial Spotlight features veteran business journeys; Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight highlights learning opportunities; and The Scoop offers engaging discussions and fresh perspectives.

  1. Eating Disorders, Military Culture & Suicide Prevention | Leah Stiles

    2D AGO

    Eating Disorders, Military Culture & Suicide Prevention | Leah Stiles

    Leah Stiles, retired Navy Senior Chief and founder of Sea Waves, joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into one of the most overlooked and misunderstood challenges facing service members and veterans—eating disorders and their impact on mental health, readiness, and suicide prevention. In this episode, we explore:• Why eating disorders are often hidden in military culture• The connection between trauma, transition, and disordered eating• Leadership blind spots and policy gaps impacting care• How education, advocacy, and early intervention can save lives Whether you're navigating military transition, serving in a leadership role, or supporting someone in uniform, this conversation provides clear, actionable insight and resources you can use today. Leah Stiles is a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief and the founder of Sea Waves, the nation’s first nonprofit exclusively dedicated to addressing eating disorders within the military and veteran community. She is a national advocate, educator, and author focused on prevention, access to care, and cultural change. The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, service members, and military spouses with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. VET S.O.S. VET S.O.S. – Veteran Entrepreneur SpotlightVET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranMentalHealth #MilitaryTransition #EatingDisorderAwareness #SuicidePrevention #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthInUniform #SeaWaves #LeadershipMatters #GrabTheLifeline

    34 min
  2. The Power of Connection in Military Transition with Josh Perschbacher

    3D AGO

    The Power of Connection in Military Transition with Josh Perschbacher

    Josh Perschbacher joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into why connection—not duplication—is the missing link in military transition. As a Navy veteran and founder of VetWork, Josh shares how regional ecosystems, mentorship, and smarter coordination help veterans move from service to purpose-driven civilian careers. In this episode, we explore:• Why veterans shouldn’t have to choose between jobs, education, and mental health support• How VetWork deconflicts veteran programs to maximize impact• The importance of building skills before transition, not after• Why mentorship and community are critical long after TAP ends If you’re transitioning, supporting veterans, or building veteran-serving organizations, this episode offers clear guidance, lived experience, and practical next steps. Josh Perschbacher is a U.S. Navy veteran, veteran education advocate, and founder of VetWork. With years of experience helping veterans navigate GI Bill benefits and workforce pathways, Josh focuses on connecting people, organizations, and opportunities to create stronger veteran outcomes nationwide. The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. VET S.O.S. VET S.O.S. – Operation StartupVET S.O.S. – Learning Lifeline Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranTransition #VetWork #MilitaryLeadership #VeteranCommunity #ItsOurTurnToServe #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranResources #Mentorship #GrabTheLifeline

    28 min
  3. Healing Through Nature: How Heroes on the Water Supports Veteran Recovery | Laura Lindsey

    FEB 11

    Healing Through Nature: How Heroes on the Water Supports Veteran Recovery | Laura Lindsey

    Laura Lindsey joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how kayak fishing and outdoor recreation are helping veterans and first responders heal from trauma, reconnect with community, and find peace beyond traditional treatment models. In this episode, we explore:• Why nature-based therapy reduces PTSD and anxiety• How Heroes on the Water removes barriers to access• The power of community and family-inclusive healing• Proven impact through recreational therapy partnerships Whether you're navigating military transition, managing mental health challenges, or searching for meaningful support beyond the couch, this conversation offers practical insight and real hope. Laura Lindsey is the Development Director of Heroes on the Water, a nonprofit serving veterans and first responders nationwide through kayak fishing and outdoor recreation programs designed to heal trauma and restore connection. The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, service members, and military spouses with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. VET S.O.S. VET S.O.S. – Operation StartupVET S.O.S. – Learning Lifeline Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranMentalHealth #HeroesOnTheWater #MilitaryTransition #PTSDHealing #VeteranWellness #OutdoorTherapy #FirstResponderSupport #GrabTheLifeline #VeteranResources

    31 min
  4. Service After Service: Valerie Lavin on Leadership, Transition, and Purpose Beyond the Uniform

    FEB 10

    Service After Service: Valerie Lavin on Leadership, Transition, and Purpose Beyond the Uniform

    Valerie Lavin joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into what it truly means to serve after military service ends. A retired U.S. Army First Sergeant turned entrepreneur and nonprofit leader, Valerie shares hard truths about military transition, leadership identity, and finding purpose beyond the uniform. In this episode, we explore:• The hidden realities veterans face after retirement• Why leadership doesn’t stop when service ends• Entrepreneurship as a path to continued impact• The unique challenges facing women veterans• Redefining success, service, and legacy Whether you're navigating military transition, building a mission-driven business, or searching for your next chapter, this conversation delivers clear, actionable insight to help you move forward with purpose. Valerie Lavin is a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant, founder of Luminary Global, and co-founder of Action Zone. She is a national advocate for veterans, military spouses, and first responders, focused on leadership, preparedness, and service beyond the uniform. The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. • VET S.O.S. • VET S.O.S. – Operation Startup• VET S.O.S. – Learning Lifeline• VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranTransition #ServiceAfterService #VeteranLeadership #WomenVeterans #VeteranEntrepreneurship #MilitaryToCivilian #PurposeAfterService #GrabTheLifeline

    29 min
  5. Military CreatorCon & Life After Service | James Van Prooyen & Marah Lago

    FEB 4

    Military CreatorCon & Life After Service | James Van Prooyen & Marah Lago

    James Van Prooyen and Marah Lago join the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how creativity, connection, and community can reshape military transition. As co-founders of Military CreatorCon, they share insights on building spaces where veterans and military-connected creatives can thrive beyond the uniform. In this episode, we explore:• Why creativity is a powerful transition tool• How networking drives opportunity after service• Expanding career paths beyond traditional transition models Whether you're navigating military transition, building a creative brand, or redefining purpose after service, this conversation delivers clarity, inspiration, and actionable steps you can use today. James Van Prooyen is a retired Air Force veteran, podcaster, and community builder focused on connection and collaboration.Marah Lago is an award-winning entrepreneur and military spouse empowering creatives through mentorship and innovation. The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. – Veteran Entrepreneur SpotlightVET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCreators #MilitaryCreatorCon #LifeAfterService #VeteranCommunity #CreativeVeterans #GrabTheLifeline #VeteranPodcast #MilitarySpouse

    30 min
  6. Turning Connections Into Careers with Evan Guzman

    FEB 3

    Turning Connections Into Careers with Evan Guzman

    Evan Guzman joins the VET S.O.S. Network to explore how mentorship, storytelling, and intentional human connection are transforming the way veterans and military spouses transition into the civilian workforce. In this episode, we explore:• Why veterans excel in today’s workforce• How mentorship opens doors to unposted jobs• The role of branding and identity after service• How employers can recruit veterans through service-first leadership Whether you're transitioning out of the military, hiring veteran talent, or seeking purpose beyond the uniform, this episode offers clear, practical guidance you can apply immediately. Evan Guzman is the former leader behind Verizon’s nationally recognized military hiring initiatives and the co-founder of Post-Veterati. Through Milbrand, he helps organizations and veterans bridge the gap between military experience and civilian opportunity. The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, service members, and military spouses with real conversations, real mentors, and real opportunities. VET S.O.S. VET S.O.S. — Operation StartupVET S.O.S. — Learning LifelineVET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranTransition #VeteranMentorship #MilitaryCareers #LeadershipPodcast #VeteranSupport #PostVeterati #GrabTheLifeline

    37 min
  7. How VET Mentor AI Is Transforming VA Claims | Paul Hylenski

    JAN 28

    How VET Mentor AI Is Transforming VA Claims | Paul Hylenski

    Paul Hylenski joins VET S.O.S. to dive into how AI is reshaping VA claims, improving rating accuracy, preventing predatory practices, and giving veterans a true path to success during transition. In this episode, we explore:• Paul’s difficult transition journey and why he built VET Mentor AI• How AI analyzes VA claims, predicts rating outcomes, and identifies missing secondaries• What hallucination-proof AI means for veteran safety• The story of a Marine whose life was saved by the VET Mentor AI crisis-detection system Whether you're navigating military transition, increasing your VA rating, or searching for reliable tools to support your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. Paul Hylenski is a Marine Corps veteran, founder of VET Mentor AI, and an AI strategist using technology to remove barriers for veterans. His platform includes AI-driven claim optimization, Nexus letter generation, virtual C&P avatars, and one of the first suicide ideation detectors integrated into a veteran support system. The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive. VET S.O.S. VET S.O.S. – Veteran Entrepreneur SpotlightVET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #VeteranBenefits #VetMentorAI #VAClaimsHelp #AIForGood #VeteranSupport #TransitionResources #GrabTheLifeline #Veterans

    30 min
  8. Leading After Service with Ross Dickman | Hire Heroes USA | The Military Effect

    JAN 27

    Leading After Service with Ross Dickman | Hire Heroes USA | The Military Effect

    Description:Ross Dickman joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into what leadership looks like after military service and how veterans and military spouses can translate their experience into civilian careers that align with purpose and potential. As CEO of Hire Heroes USA, Ross shares insights on transition challenges, resume translation, leadership without rank, and why human skills still matter in today’s evolving workforce. In this episode, we explore:• Why military experience is often misunderstood by civilian employers• How coaching helps veterans articulate their real value• Leadership lessons that carry forward beyond the uniform• Finding meaningful employment instead of settling for the first job Whether you're navigating military transition, rebuilding your career after service, or searching for clarity and direction, this episode offers practical guidance and encouragement. About the Guest:Ross Dickman is a Bronze Star-awarded U.S. Army veteran and former Apache helicopter pilot. He is the CEO of Hire Heroes USA, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans and military spouses secure meaningful civilian employment through personalized career coaching. 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. – Veteran Entrepreneur SpotlightVET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight 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 #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranCareers #MilitaryTransition#HireHeroesUSA #VeteranLeadership #MilitarySpouseCareers #ItsOurTurnToServe #GrabTheLifeline

    31 min
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4.9
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

VET S.O.S. is a military transition focused organization dedicated to helping service members, veterans, and military families navigate transition and thrive in civilian life. Through four targeted shows, we deliver resources, insights, and inspiration: Military Transition Resources Show shares tools and programs for a smoother transition; Veteran Entrepreneurial Spotlight features veteran business journeys; Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight highlights learning opportunities; and The Scoop offers engaging discussions and fresh perspectives.

Information

  • Creator
    Shawn Welsh, Keith Cassant, Eric Brew, Mark Elder; Hira Paulin; Kingsley Scott
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    233
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Shawn Welsh, Keith Cassant, Eric Brew, Mark Elder; Hira Paulin; Kingsley Scott
  • Show Website
    VET S.O.S. Podcast