VET S.O.S. Podcast

Shawn Welsh, Keith Cassant, Eric Brew, Mark Elder; Hira Paulin; Kingsley Scott

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. Veteran Cancer Awareness & Early Detection | Marine Veteran Ashton Kroner

    2D AGO

    Veteran Cancer Awareness & Early Detection | Marine Veteran Ashton Kroner

    Description: Marine Corps veteran Ashton Kroner joins the VET S.O.S. Network to discuss the mission behind the Veteran Cancer Network and the urgent need for better cancer detection and resources within the veteran community. After her husband was diagnosed with late-stage cancer following a misdiagnosis, Ashton helped launch a nonprofit dedicated to improving early cancer screening, veteran awareness, and peer support for those navigating diagnosis and treatment. In this episode, we explore: • Why veterans face increased cancer risk from military exposures• The role of multi-cancer early detection blood tests• How the Veteran Cancer Network supports veterans and families Whether you're navigating military transition, supporting a loved one through illness, or trying to take control of your health, this conversation offers actionable insights for veterans and families facing one of life’s toughest battles. About the Guest: Ashton Kroner is a Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of the Veteran Cancer Network, a nonprofit organization focused on improving cancer awareness, screening access, and support resources for veterans and their families. 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.com X/Twitter: @vetsospodcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Facebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcast Instagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcast TikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranCancerNetwork #VeteranHealth #CancerAwareness #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #CancerScreening #VeteransHelpingVeterans #BurnPitExposure #GrabTheLifeline

    33 min
  2. From Surviving to Thriving: Military Spouse Wellness & Leadership with Evie King

    3D AGO

    From Surviving to Thriving: Military Spouse Wellness & Leadership with Evie King

    Evie King, President of Independent (InDependent) and 2023 Military Spouse of the Year, joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into military spouse wellness, leadership, and holistic wellbeing as part of The Military Effect campaign. In this episode, we explore:• Why military spouse wellness must be addressed holistically• How education and access reduce wellness disparities• Mental health, nutrition, and daily habits in military life• Redefining spouses as leaders—not just supporters Whether you're navigating military life, supporting a spouse, or looking for meaningful resources, this episode provides clear, actionable insight to help you thrive. Evie King is an Army spouse and nonprofit leader dedicated to advancing military spouse wellness worldwide. As President of Independent, she leads research-driven programs that remove barriers to wellness access and empower military families across the globe. 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 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 #MilitarySpouseWellness #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranFamilies #MilitaryLeadership #HolisticWellness #MilitarySpouseSupport #VeteranResources #NonprofitImpact #GrabTheLifeline

    48 min
  3. Military Spouse Transition Matters | Episode 200 with Anna Larson

    MAR 4

    Military Spouse Transition Matters | Episode 200 with Anna Larson

    Anna Larson joins the VET S.O.S. Network for a milestone Episode 200, bringing long-overdue attention to the realities military spouses face during transition. As the founder of MilSpouse Transition, Anna shares how military transition impacts not just service members—but spouses, children, careers, identity, and wellbeing. From sudden ETS decisions to retirement, healthcare gaps, and employment challenges, this episode highlights why transition planning must include the entire family. In this episode, we explore:• The emotional and identity challenges military spouses face after service• Why spouses are often excluded from transition resources• Differences between ETS, medical separation, and retirement transitions• Practical tools and questions spouses should be asking early Whether you're navigating military transition, supporting a spouse, or working in the veteran support space, this conversation offers clarity, validation, and next steps. Anna Larson is the founder of MilSpouse Transition, a Gallup-Certified Wellbeing Coach, and longtime military spouse. She advocates for holistic transition support that centers families, wellbeing, and long-term stability. 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 #MilitarySpouseTransition #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranSupport #SpouseAdvocacy #TransitionResources #MilSpouse #GrabTheLifeline #Episode200 #FamilyReadiness

    38 min
  4. Therapeutic Beekeeping & Veteran Healing | Eryck Stamper | Mission Beelieve

    FEB 25

    Therapeutic Beekeeping & Veteran Healing | Eryck Stamper | Mission Beelieve

    Eryck Stamper joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how therapeutic beekeeping is helping veterans and first responders heal from trauma, rediscover purpose, and rebuild life after service. In this episode, we explore:• Military transition challenges and identity after service• How nature-based and agricultural therapy supports mental health• The science and psychology behind beekeeping as healing• How Mission Beelieve provides free programs for veterans nationwide Whether you're navigating military transition, managing PTSD, or searching for non-traditional healing tools, this conversation delivers practical insight and real-world hope. Eryck Stamper is a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief and Veteran Outreach Coordinator for Mission Beelieve, a nonprofit dedicated to therapeutic beekeeping for veterans, first responders, and families. His work focuses on holistic healing, agriculture-based therapy, and veteran reintegration. 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 #GrabTheLifeline #VeteranHealing #VeteranTransition #TherapeuticBeekeeping #MissionBeelieve #HolisticHealth #PTSDSupport #VeteranWellness #MilitaryLife

    36 min
  5. The Power of Connection for Women Veterans | Melissa A. Washington

    FEB 24

    The Power of Connection for Women Veterans | Melissa A. Washington

    Melissa A. Washington joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how connection, visibility, and purpose shape life after military service for women veterans. A Navy veteran and founder of Women Veterans Alliance, Melissa shares powerful insights on navigating transition, building resilient communities, and creating a legacy of impact. In this episode, we explore:• Why women veterans need community-driven connection• How visibility creates leadership and opportunity• Resilience, vulnerability, and evolving purpose after service Whether you're navigating military transition, growing a business, leading a nonprofit, or redefining service beyond the uniform, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration. Melissa A. Washington is a U.S. Navy veteran, entrepreneur, and nationally recognized advocate for women veterans. As founder of Women Veterans Alliance, she has helped elevate thousands of women veteran leaders and business owners worldwide. 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 Startup• VET 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 #WomenVeterans #VeteranTransition #VeteranLeadership #MilitaryCommunity #VeteranSupport #VETSOS #TheMilitaryEffect #WomenWhoServe #PurposeAfterService #GrabTheLifeline

    27 min
  6. Eating Disorders, Military Culture & Suicide Prevention | Leah Stiles

    FEB 18

    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
  7. The Power of Connection in Military Transition with Josh Perschbacher

    FEB 17

    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
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.