VET SOS Podcast

💼 Special Guest: Ms. Sanchez Joins the Show! We’re thrilled to have Ms. Sanchez on the show! She runs a coaching and consulting business specializing in medical industry solutions and has been achieving remarkable success. 🌟 Why You Should Listen: ✔️ She’s helping professionals navigate the medical industry. ✔️ She’s built a thriving business from the ground up. ✔️ Her story is packed with entrepreneurial wisdom. 📖 If you’re an entrepreneur, consultant, or in the medical field, this episode is a must-watch! 💬 Drop a 🔥 in the comments if you’re excited! #Entrepreneurship #BusinessConsulting #MedicalCoaching #Leadership

💡 Recovery Doesn’t End in Rehab—It Starts There. In this episode of Transition Guest Talks Recovery, we sit down with the founder of a Florida-based recovery program that is making real change. 🔹 Why His Story Matters: ✔️ He personally battled alcohol & drug addiction. ✔️ He saw holes in traditional programs and set out to fix them. ✔️ His focus? Helping people navigate life after rehab—because that’s when relapse happens. 🚨 Recovery isn’t just about sobriety—it’s about building a new way of life. 💬 Do you know someone who’s gone through recovery? What do you think helps the most? Let’s talk. #AddictionRecovery #HealingAndHope #RecoverySupport #TransitionRecovery

Unlocking Career Success: DRI Scholarships & Insights from Veteran Duane Bygum

In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we are honored to host Duane Bygum, a 30-year veteran of the armed forces and current chair of the Disaster Recovery Institute (DRI) Veterans Outreach Program. With a distinguished career spanning the Marine Corps, Air Force, and law enforcement, including his role as Deputy Chief of Police, Duane provides a wealth of knowledge on the transition from military service to civilian success. Duane shares his personal journey, from his groundbreaking work on the first biometric fingerprint identification system in the Air Force to leading as Chief of Police for the U.S. Navy. After retiring, he discovered the life-changing DRI scholarship program, which helped him gain essential certifications in business continuity, continuity of operations, and disaster preparedness—paving the way for a thriving corporate career. In this episode, Duane delves into the practical and transformative benefits of the DRI scholarship, a program designed to support veterans within three years of separation or one year before separation. He highlights the application process, eligibility criteria, and the value of in-person learning experiences offered through DRI programs. He also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, networking, and building skills that are directly transferable to the civilian workforce. � Key Takeaways from This Episode: - Duane’s unique insights into transitioning from the military to civilian life. - The pivotal role of the DRI scholarship in acquiring certifications and securing a corporate career. - Step-by-step guidance on applying for the DRI scholarship, including essay tips and volunteer activity requirements. - Why in-person learning often outshines online courses in professional development. - Advice for veterans on leveraging mentorship and support networks like VET S.O.S. Actionable Insights: - Learn how certifications in disaster recovery and business continuity can enhance your career prospects. - Discov

From Combat Boots to CEO: Paula Sanchez Journey in Healthcare Innovation & Veteran Entrepreneurship

Welcome back to the VET S.O.S. Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight! In this episode, we're honored to sit down with Paula Sanchez, CEO and founder of Sankirtz Marketing & Consulting Services. Paula is a proud veteran of the Air Force and Army National Guard, holding a master's degree in nursing informatics. Her company is an independent health IT consulting agency that specializes in interoperability, human-centered design concepts, UX/UI solution designs, pragmatic marketing, and agile methodology. Paula shares her inspiring journey from serving as a surgical technician in the Air Force to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She opens up about the emotional and professional challenges she faced during her military transition, highlighting how the lack of support in 2001 led her to discover veteran resources much later in her career. Programs like V-WISE, FourBlock, and WoVen played a critical role in helping Paula gain business acumen, build a supportive network, and foster resilience in entrepreneurship. She also emphasizes the importance of paying it forward by actively mentoring and empowering fellow veterans, especially women veterans. In this episode, Paula delves into how Sankirtz Marketing & Consulting Services helps healthcare organizations and regulatory industries streamline workflows, improve compliance, and implement innovative solutions. She explains how her background in nursing informatics allows her to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and IT professionals, ensuring that technological solutions are both compliant and user-friendly. Paula discusses her company's growth from domestic healthcare clients to international corporate partnerships, expanding into other regulatory industries beyond healthcare. Discover how Paula turned her passion for healthcare innovation into a thriving business and how she's leveraging her extensive experience to tackle industry pain points. Gain valuable insights into how veterans can transition into entrepreneur

Overcoming Challenges: Nick Padlow's Journey from Army Veteran to CEO of Sophros Recovery

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sit down with Nick Padlo, a decorated combat veteran, West Point graduate, and successful entrepreneur, who has turned his own struggles into a mission to help others. As the CEO of Sophros Recovery, Nick leads an award-winning addiction treatment center that is changing lives by providing evidence-based, accessible mental health and addiction services for veterans and beyond. Nick shares his incredible journey, starting with his service in the U.S. Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he earned a Bronze Star Medal and Combat Action Badge. Transitioning out of the military, Nick faced a profound identity crisis, grappling with the loss of structure, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose that many veterans experience. Over time, these challenges led to struggles with alcohol and mental health—culminating in a pivotal moment where he chose to seek help and rebuild his life. Through candid storytelling, Nick details the steps he took to find healing, from attending rehab twice to an extraordinary three-month stint in Cambodia practicing mindfulness and yoga. He opens up about how these experiences not only helped him recover but also inspired him to create Sophros Recovery, a place where others can find hope, support, and a community dedicated to lasting change. We also delve into the services Sophros Recovery offers, including partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs that empower individuals to confront life’s challenges while receiving critical care. Nick explains why recovery isn’t about a quick fix but rather a long-term journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and connection. Whether you’re a veteran navigating life after service, someone struggling with addiction, or simply looking for a source of inspiration, this episode offers invaluable insights and hope. As Nick reminds us, recovery is not a solo journey—it’s a community effort, and taking the first

Supporting Military-Connected Students: Lori Milkeris’ Journey at UWF

In this insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, Shawn Welsh, a proud alumnus of the University of West Florida (UWF), and Dr. Hira engage in a heartfelt conversation with Lori Milkeris, the Director of UWF’s Military and Veteran Resource Center. Lori, an Air Force veteran and mental health technician, shares her compelling journey from military service to her impactful role in higher education. Lori recounts her transition out of the Air Force in 1998, reflecting on the challenges of reentering civilian life, navigating education as a single mother, and overcoming the mental and emotional adjustments required. These experiences laid the foundation for her passion to help others. Starting as a VA work-study student, Lori identified gaps in support for military-connected students, particularly those facing academic and emotional challenges. Her commitment to early intervention and holistic support propelled her career, eventually leading to her role as director. The Military and Veteran Resource Center at UWF serves over 2,500 military-connected students, with 1,800 actively using VA educational benefits. Lori shares how the center fosters a community of support through initiatives like a swim team mentorship program, semester checkpoints, and the Pensacola Veteran Support Organization Network, which connects students to a wealth of resources via a comprehensive 58-page guide. Listeners will learn about the center’s welcoming environment, complete with essential services like snacks, coffee, computers, and printing, as well as its dedication to organizing events such as Veterans Day and Memorial Day observances that build camaraderie and connection. Lori also emphasizes the significance of Pensacola’s military-rich community, home to five nearby bases, and how it enhances opportunities for veterans. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of persistence and community in supporting veterans’ transitions to academic and civilian life. Lor

🎥 Big Announcement: A New Show is Coming! We’ve had some incredible discussions this week, and we’re thrilled to announce a new show launching mid-season! 💡 This show is dedicated to military and veteran spouses, sharing their stories, challenges, and triumphs. We’re so excited about the possibilities and the direction this show will take. Stay tuned for updates as we iron out the final details! 💬 What topics would you like to see covered in this show? Let us know in the comments! #NewShow #MilitarySpouses #VeteranCommunity #ExcitingNews

From Trauma to Triumph: Daniel O'Dell’s Journey with MotiveFate, LLC & The Fluffy Poodle

Welcome back to the VET S.O.S. Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight—the lifeline for transitioning service members and veteran entrepreneurs! In this powerful episode, host Shawn Welsh sits down with Daniel O'Dell, a disabled Army veteran, motivational speaker, social media influencer, and the founder of MotiveFate, LLC. Daniel’s story is one of resilience, determination, and purpose. Born into poverty and raised in foster care, group homes, and shelters, Daniel endured unimaginable physical, mental, and sexual abuse before the age of 18. After serving in the military, he faced a difficult transition complicated by severe disabilities, including a full neck replacement that limited his ability to work in traditional roles. Struggling to find his purpose, Daniel discovered his calling as a motivational speaker and entrepreneur. He founded MotiveFate, LLC, a company dedicated to inspiring others to overcome adversity and achieve their goals. With the help of his beloved service dog, the unmistakable Fluffy Poodle—known for his eye-catching green fur—Daniel travels the world speaking to corporations, schools, foster care groups, and Fortune 500 companies, delivering powerful and customized messages of resilience, adaptability, and hope. In This Episode, Daniel Discusses: � His challenging transition from military service to civilian life. � The struggles of finding employment as a disabled veteran. � How he turned personal hardship into a thriving business. � The creation and mission of MotiveFate, LLC. � His partnership with organizations like Warrior Rising and the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce. � The importance of setting short- and long-term goals for success. � Valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: “Never give up. Adapt and overcome.” Daniel’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of sharing your story. Whether you’re a veteran navigating your own transition or an entrepreneur seeking motivation, t

🎓 The College That Changed Everything I recently had the opportunity to connect with the veteran director at my alma mater—the school where I met my wife and made unforgettable memories. This place will always hold a special place in my heart. 💕 Hearing about the incredible things happening there today reminded me just how much this school shaped my life. 💡 What’s one thing you’ll never forget about your college experience? Let’s reminisce in the comments! #CollegeDays #VeteranSupport #WhereItAllStarted

Navigating Transitions: Coffee Bunker’s Mission to Transform Military Transitions

In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re thrilled to spotlight the transformative work being done at the Coffee Bunker, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans, military professionals, and their families. Donna Rogers, a retired career tech counselor with over 32 years of experience, and Robbie Hedrick, a dual-service veteran of the Air Force and Army, join us to share their journeys and the pivotal role the Coffee Bunker plays in empowering the military community. Donna shares heartfelt stories about her upbringing as an Army dependent and her father's challenging transition from military to civilian life, which inspired her to dedicate her post-retirement career to helping veterans succeed. Robbie opens up about his own transitions between branches of service and the obstacles he faced adjusting to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, tailored support, and community. We delve into how the Coffee Bunker goes beyond providing a safe space for veterans to connect. From resume workshops and job preparation to personalized career counseling and education planning, this organization meets veterans where they are and helps them build pathways to success. Hear about their mission to combat veteran isolation with a warm, welcoming space and a cup of coffee—and how they’re creating a ripple effect of positive change in Tulsa and beyond. This episode is a must-listen for veterans, military spouses, employers, and anyone passionate about supporting those who have served. Discover practical tips for transitioning to civilian life, learn about the resources available to military families, and gain valuable insights into why hiring veterans is a win-win for businesses and communities alike. Key Takeaways: - The importance of community in the veteran transition process. - How to translate military skills into civilian career success. - Ways employers can create a supportive environment for veterans. - Inspiring success stori

: Turning Trauma into Purpose In our latest episode of the Entrepreneur Show, shares his remarkable journey of overcoming trauma and building a business that helps others. His work with support dogs 🐾 is truly inspiring—and wait until you see his dog. You won’t forget it! 💡 If you’re looking for a story of resilience, purpose, and heart, this is one you don’t want to miss. Watch now and share your thoughts: What inspires you to keep going? #Entrepreneurship #Inspiration #SupportDogs #MotivationalStory

How Yale Supports Military Veterans: Insights from Patricia Wei on Higher Education Opportunities

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn Welsh and Dr. Hira welcome Patricia Wei, the Director of Veteran Outreach at Yale University, to discuss the transformative integration of military veterans into the world of higher education. Patricia shares how Yale has cultivated an inclusive and supportive environment for veterans, with a growing presence of 46 enlisted veterans in its undergraduate community and 130 veterans in its graduate programs, amidst a total student population of around 13,000. Patricia dives into her personal journey of working with veterans, starting as the Director of Admissions for Yale’s Eli Whitney Students Program, which is tailored for non-traditional students. She highlights how the program has evolved to support veterans with unique experiences and diverse backgrounds, emphasizing their significant contributions to Yale's academic and social fabric. The conversation also explores the wealth of resources Yale offers veterans, including the Yale Undergraduate Veteran Society, the Student Veterans Council, and a brand-new veterans’ lounge. Patricia discusses Yale's partnerships with organizations like Service to School and Warriors Scholar Project, which provide guidance and preparation for veterans navigating the application process. She stresses the importance of veterans not self-selecting out of applying to prestigious institutions, sharing actionable advice on academic readiness, such as leveraging community college courses to demonstrate recent educational performance. Listeners will also gain insight into how Yale fosters a sense of community for veterans through initiatives like the Fall Welcome barbecue, Veterans Day ceremonies, and other events organized by dedicated staff members. Patricia sheds light on the comprehensive support system that includes tailored advising, flexible programming, and facilities designed to ease the transition to college life for veterans balancing family and work responsibilities. Address