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

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 Startup
VET S.O.S. – Learning Lifeline

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 #VeteranTransition #VetWork #MilitaryLeadership #VeteranCommunity #ItsOurTurnToServe #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranResources #Mentorship #GrabTheLifeline

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

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.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 #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranTransition #ServiceAfterService #VeteranLeadership #WomenVeterans #VeteranEntrepreneurship #MilitaryToCivilian #PurposeAfterService #GrabTheLifeline

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 Spotlight
VET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight

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 #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCreators #MilitaryCreatorCon #LifeAfterService #VeteranCommunity #CreativeVeterans #GrabTheLifeline #VeteranPodcast #MilitarySpouse

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 Startup
VET S.O.S. — Learning Lifeline
VET S.O.S. Presents: The Scoop

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 #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranTransition #VeteranMentorship #MilitaryCareers #LeadershipPodcast #VeteranSupport #PostVeterati #GrabTheLifeline

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 Spotlight
VET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight

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 #MilitaryTransition #VeteranBenefits #VetMentorAI #VAClaimsHelp #AIForGood #VeteranSupport #TransitionResources #GrabTheLifeline #Veterans

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 Spotlight
VET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight

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 #TheMilitaryEffect #VeteranCareers #MilitaryTransition
#HireHeroesUSA #VeteranLeadership #MilitarySpouseCareers #ItsOurTurnToServe #GrabTheLifeline

Gene Moran joins VET S.O.S. to break down the realities of transitioning from military service into the world of federal advocacy, Washington influence, corporate culture, and veteran entrepreneurship. Gene shares powerful insights into navigating government funding, thinking bigger about post-service careers, expanding your network, and building a fulfilling second career.

In this episode, we explore:
• The real challenges behind corporate culture and veteran fit
• The biggest myths about government influence and lobbying
• How veterans can identify new career pathways and “escape routes”
• Why investing in personal growth is essential after military service

Whether you're transitioning, starting a business, stepping into leadership, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this episode equips you with actionable strategies you can use immediately.

Gene Moran is a retired Navy Captain and one of Washington’s most accomplished experts in federal defense lobbying. As founder of Capitol Integration, Gene helps companies navigate complex federal acquisition environments, with client impacts measured in billions of dollars. He is a multi-book author, university professor, and host of the Make Your Move podcast, where he elevates veteran voices and teaches others how to succeed in high-stakes environments.

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. – Military Transition Resources Show
VET S.O.S. – Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight
VET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight

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 #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCareers #FederalLobbying #DefenseIndustry #CareerGrowth #VeteranPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #GrabTheLifeline

Leonor Branch joins the VET S.O.S. Network for The Military Effect - Our Time to Serve Campaign to dive into the emotional and often unseen challenges women face after taking off the uniform. Through her nonprofit Sisters in Service and signature program Pivot with Purpose, Leonor tackles isolation, identity loss, mental health, VA navigation, and community-building head-on.

In this episode, we explore:
• The loneliness and silence many women veterans face after transition
• Founding Sisters in Service from a place of isolation, motherhood, and purpose
• Pivot with Purpose: financial wellness, VA healthcare, community, and confidence
• Healing through sisterhood: retreats, trust-building, and shared experience

Whether you’re navigating transition, seeking community, or working to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today.

Leonor Branch, a 20-year Air Force combat veteran, is the founder of Sisters in Service and creator of the Pivot with Purpose program. She is an advocate for women veterans rediscovering who they are after service, with a mission shaped by her experiences with transition, trauma, sobriety, and rebuilding identity.

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. – Military Transition Resources Show
VET S.O.S. – Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight
VET S.O.S. – Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight

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 #WomenVeterans #TheScoop #SistersInService #PivotWithPurpose #MilitaryTransition #VeteranMentalHealth #MSTAwareness #TheMilitaryEffect #GrabTheLifeline