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. Cybersecurity Careers for Veterans | Wilson Bautista Jr. & Cyber Ohana Project

    6D AGO

    Cybersecurity Careers for Veterans | Wilson Bautista Jr. & Cyber Ohana Project

    Description:Wilson Bautista Jr. joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how veterans can successfully transition into cybersecurity careers and share insights on mentorship, career alignment, and overcoming transition challenges. In this episode, we explore:• The hidden challenges of military transition and mental health• Why traditional cybersecurity training often fails veterans• How the Cyber Ohana Project helps veterans find the right career path faster Whether you're navigating military transition, pursuing cybersecurity, or searching for a supportive community, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today. About the Guest:Wilson Bautista Jr. is a former Marine Corps officer and CEO of JunCyber, as well as Executive Director of the Cyber Ohana Project. He helps veterans transition into cybersecurity through mentorship, targeted training, and community-driven support. 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 #Cybersecurity #VeteranCareers #MilitaryTransition #CyberOhana #TechForVeterans #VeteranSupport #CareerChange #CyberJobs #GrabTheLifeline

    29 min
  2. Career Readiness, Mentorship & Purpose After the Uniform | FourBlock | E.J. O’Brien

    APR 14

    Career Readiness, Mentorship & Purpose After the Uniform | FourBlock | E.J. O’Brien

    E.J. O’Brien joins the VET S.O.S. Network as part of the Military Effect Campaign to discuss career readiness, mentorship, and finding purpose after military service through FourBlock. In this episode, we explore:• Why military transition is a lifelong journey• How veterans can translate experience into civilian value• The power of mentorship, sponsorship, and community• Why purpose matters more than titles and paychecks Whether you’re transitioning out, pivoting careers, or supporting someone navigating life after service, this conversation delivers clear, actionable insight grounded in real-world experience. E.J. O’Brien is a retired U.S. Air Force senior enlisted leader and Vice President at FourBlock, where he helps veterans and military spouses prepare for meaningful civilian careers. With over two decades of leadership experience, E.J. is dedicated to strengthening the military-to-civilian pipeline through mentorship, education, and 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 #VeteranTransition #CareerReadiness #MilitaryLeadership #FourBlock #VeteranSupport #PurposeDriven #MilitaryEffect #VeteranCommunity #GrabTheLifeline

    51 min
  3. Building Veteran Community After Service | Pedro Zambrano & Veteran Coffee Connection

    APR 8

    Building Veteran Community After Service | Pedro Zambrano & Veteran Coffee Connection

    Description: Pedro Zambrano joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into the power of authentic conversation, mentorship, and community through his initiative Veteran Coffee Connection. After serving 23 years in the Marine Corps, Pedro recognized how difficult military transition can be—even for those who think they’re prepared. Through weekly virtual gatherings, he now brings veterans together to share lessons learned, provide mentorship, and help one another navigate life after service. In this episode, we explore: • Why relationships and networking are the foundation of successful transition• How Veteran Coffee Connection helps veterans find clarity and direction• The leadership mindset veterans must adopt after leaving the military Whether you're navigating military transition, building a career, or looking for a veteran community that understands your journey, this conversation offers practical insight and real-world guidance. About the Guest: Pedro Zambrano is a retired Marine Corps leader and the founder of Veteran Coffee Connection, a mentorship-driven community focused on leadership, transition guidance, and professional growth for veterans. His mission is simple: create authentic conversations that help veterans rebuild confidence and succeed in life after service. 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#VeteranTransition#VeteranNetworking#VeteranMentorship#MilitaryTransition#VeteranCommunity#MarineVeteran#VeteranSupport#LeadershipAfterService#GrabTheLifeline

    28 min
  4. From Uniform to Legacy | Rich Possert & Operation New Uniform

    APR 7

    From Uniform to Legacy | Rich Possert & Operation New Uniform

    Rich Possert, U.S. Navy veteran and Program Manager at Operation New Uniform, joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into military transition, mindset, and building meaningful post-service careers. In this episode, we explore:• Why mindset determines transition success• How veterans reclaim confidence after service• The power of networking and self-translation• Building careers and legacy beyond the uniform Whether you're transitioning, mentoring, or searching for purpose beyond service, this conversation delivers real-world insight you can use today. Rich Possert is a retired U.S. Navy veteran and Program Manager at Operation New Uniform. He leads veteran and military spouse career transition programs focused on mindset, confidence, and long-term success in civilian careers. 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. Presents Operation StartupVET S.O.S. Presents 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 #VeteranTransition #OperationNewUniform #MilitaryLeadership #VeteranCareers #ServiceAfterService #MilitaryEffect #CareerReadiness #VeteranSuccess #GrabTheLifeline

    41 min
  5. Military Transition Success with Matt Quick | PMP Certification & Veteran Career Strategy

    APR 1

    Military Transition Success with Matt Quick | PMP Certification & Veteran Career Strategy

    Description:Matt Quick, retired Sergeant Major and military outreach leader for the Project Management Institute (PMI), joins the VET S.O.S. Network to discuss how service members can translate military leadership experience into civilian career success through project management. Drawing from 25 years of service across the Marine Corps and Army, Matt shares his personal transition journey and explains how mentorship, planning, and professional certifications can dramatically improve a veteran’s career outcomes. In this episode, we explore:• Why mentorship is critical for successful military transition• How project management skills already exist within military leadership• The difference between PMP and CAPM certifications for veterans• Why professional certifications can accelerate civilian career success Whether you're navigating military transition, pursuing a certification, or exploring new career paths after service, this conversation provides practical steps you can take today. About the Guest:Matt Quick is a retired Sergeant Major and military program leader at the Project Management Institute (PMI). With over 25 years of military service, he now focuses on helping veterans, service members, and military spouses transition successfully into civilian careers through project management education, mentorship, and professional certification. 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 #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCareers #ProjectManagement #VeteranMentorship #PMI #PMP #VeteranLeadership #CareerTransition #VeteranResources

    34 min
  6. From E-6 to Brigade Commander: COL (Ret) Mikel Burroughs on Veteran Peer Support & Healing

    MAR 31

    From E-6 to Brigade Commander: COL (Ret) Mikel Burroughs on Veteran Peer Support & Healing

    COL (Ret) Mikel Burroughs joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into veteran peer support, leadership beyond the uniform, and the mission to reduce veteran suicide through connection and purpose. In this episode, we explore:• The power of peer support and veteran camaraderie• How Warriors for Life creates safe spaces for healing• Why transition struggles impact mental health• How veterans can continue serving after retirement Whether you're navigating military transition, mentoring others, or searching for meaningful ways to give back, this conversation offers clear, actionable insight you can use today. COL (Ret) Mikel Burroughs served 37 years in uniform and now serves as CEO of Victory for Veterans. He leads national peer support initiatives, supports veteran healing programs, and continues his mission to ensure no veteran fights alone after service. 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 Website: vetsospodcast.comX/Twitter: @vetsospodcastLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcastYouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcastFacebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcastInstagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast #VETSOS #VeteranSupport #MilitaryLeadership #PeerSupport #VeteranTransition #MentalHealthMatters #VeteranCommunity #ItsOurTurnToServe #GrabTheLifeline #TheMilitaryEffect

    21 min
  7. Healing Through Music: How Derik Board Helps Veterans Turn Their Stories Into Songs

    MAR 25

    Healing Through Music: How Derik Board Helps Veterans Turn Their Stories Into Songs

    Description: Derik Board joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into the healing power of music and how creative storytelling can help veterans process their experiences and share their stories with the world. As the founder of Commemorate Through Chords, Derik helps veterans transform their military journeys into original songs that preserve their legacy and provide an outlet for healing. In this episode, we explore:• The emotional challenges veterans face when transitioning from military service• How songwriting can help veterans process trauma and reconnect with purpose• The mission of Commemorate Through Chords and how it’s preserving veteran stories through music Whether you're navigating military transition, supporting a veteran, or searching for powerful ways to express and preserve life experiences, this episode offers insight into how music can become a lifeline for healing and connection. About the Guest: Derik Board is an Air Force National Guard veteran, musician, and veteran advocate from the Ohio Valley. As the founder of Commemorate Through Chords, he works directly with veterans to turn their stories into music, creating a powerful legacy through songwriting and storytelling. 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 #VeteranTransition#VeteranStories#MusicTherapy#MilitaryCommunity#VeteranSupport#VeteranMentalHealth#VETSOS#MilitaryPodcast#HealingThroughMusic#GrabTheLifeline

    29 min
  8. Legacy in Action: Christian Meza on Loss, Purpose, and The Military Effect

    MAR 24

    Legacy in Action: Christian Meza on Loss, Purpose, and The Military Effect

    Christian Meza joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into legacy, loss, faith, and continued service through The Military Effect campaign. As a Folds of Honor scholarship recipient and Regional Impact Officer, Christian shares how personal grief became a lifelong mission to support military families. In this episode, we explore:• How military service impacts families long after the uniform comes off• Turning loss into purpose through service and leadership• Building community through Folds of Honor and golf-based fundraising• Why storytelling saves lives and strengthens legacy Whether you're navigating military transition, dealing with grief, or searching for purpose beyond service, this conversation offers clarity, hope, and real-world perspective. Christian Meza is a Regional Impact Officer for Folds of Honor and a proud military son. After losing his father to service-connected injuries, Christian became a national advocate for military families, helping raise awareness, funding scholarships, and building community impact across the country. 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 #FoldsOfHonor #VeteranStories #MilitaryLegacy #PurposeDrivenLeadership #GoldStarFamilies #TheMilitaryEffect #GrabTheLifeline

    33 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
    249
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Shawn Welsh, Keith Cassant, Eric Brew, Mark Elder; Hira Paulin; Kingsley Scott
  • Show Website
    VET S.O.S. Podcast