VET S.O.S. Podcast

Joey Carzoli, Physical Health & Wellness Coach with Wounded Warrior Project, joins VET S.O.S. to dive into what sustainable health really looks like for veterans after service. From chronic pain and weight gain to mental health, identity, and purpose, this episode explores how physical wellness can become a powerful anchor during military transition.

In this episode, we explore:
• Why purpose matters more than motivation• How physical and mental health are inseparable after service• What veterans can expect from Wounded Warrior Project wellness programs• How to build realistic, sustainable fitness habits after the military

Whether you're navigating military transition, rebuilding your health, or searching for purpose after service, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today.

Joey Carzoli is a Physical Health & Wellness Coach with the Wounded Warrior Project and holds a PhD in Neurophysiology. His work focuses on helping veterans translate health science into practical, sustainable lifestyle changes that improve long-term well-being.

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 Startup VET S.O.S. Presents 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 #VeteranHealth #MilitaryTransition #VeteranWellness #WoundedWarriorProject #MentalHealth #ChronicPain #PurposeAfterService #VeteranResources #GrabTheLifeline

Description:

Ashish Bajaj and Michael Lorey join the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into two of the most pressing challenges veterans face during transition: VA disability claims and financial stability.

In this episode, we explore:

• The step-by-step VA claims process and how case management works• The 3 required elements every successful claim must include• How to avoid predatory claims companies• Why financial stress peaks during transition (and how to manage it)• Practical budgeting tools veterans can use immediately• State-level benefits that can supplement income

Michael shares his personal transition story and discusses the reality that it can take 4–7 years for many veterans to fully stabilize financially after leaving the military. Ashish explains how money stress connects to mental health — and how veterans can regain control through practical, manageable steps.

Whether you're navigating military transition, filing your first VA claim, or trying to build financial security after service, this episode gives you clear, actionable guidance you can use today.

About the Guests:

Ashish Bajaj is a Financial Educator with Wounded Warrior Project, specializing in financial coaching and empowerment for veterans.

Michael Lorey is the Southeast Benefits Regional Director at Wounded Warrior Project and a retired U.S. Navy officer with over 21 years of 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.

Don’t drown in the sea of transition — grab the lifeline.

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
#VeteranBenefits
#WoundedWarriorProject
#VAClaims
#MilitaryTransition
#VeteranFinancialSupport
#DisabilityBenefits
#TransitionTools
#VeteranResources
#GrabTheLifeline

Fitha Dahana-Ellis joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how the Warrior Care Network provides accelerated, evidence-based mental health treatment for veterans and military families through top academic medical centers.

In this episode, we explore:
• Why traditional PTSD therapy often falls short for veterans
• How two weeks of intensive treatment can equal months of care
• What makes academic medical centers uniquely effective
• How veterans and families can access care with minimal barriers

Whether you're navigating military transition, supporting a loved one, or searching for real mental health solutions, this episode delivers insight and clarity you can act on today.

Fitha Dahana-Ellis is a Veteran Advocate with the Warrior Care Network and a military spouse with firsthand experience navigating PTSD recovery. She works nationwide to connect veterans and families with life-changing mental health resources.

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 Startup VET S.O.S. Presents 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
#VeteranMentalHealth
#PTSDHelp
#WarriorCareNetwork
#MilitaryTransition
#VeteranSupport
#MentalHealthRecovery
#MilitaryFamilies
#WoundedWarrior
#GrabTheLifeline

On this Memorial Day episode of the VET S.O.S. Network, Crystal Serrano-Hairston and Jennifer Land break down how Wounded Warrior Project delivers critical mental health support through triage services, complex case coordination, and the nationwide Check-In Program.

In this conversation, we explore:• How veterans access mental health care through WWP• What happens when a veteran calls for help• How the Check-In Program supports veterans and families—even outside WWP eligibility• How advocates manage burnout while serving veterans with severe trauma

Whether you're navigating military transition, supporting a veteran in crisis, or searching for trusted mental health resources, this episode offers clear, actionable guidance and hope.

Crystal Serrano-Hairston is a Veteran Advocate with Wounded Warrior Project, leading complex behavioral health coordination efforts across VA and private systems. Jennifer Land manages mental health operations and partnerships for WWP, overseeing triage and the Check-In Program connecting veterans nationwide to care.

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 Startup VET S.O.S. Presents 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
#VeteranMentalHealth
#MilitaryTransition
#WoundedWarriorProject
#PTSDAwareness
#VeteranSupport
#MentalHealthMatters
#MemorialDay
#GrabTheLifeline
#VeteransHelpingVeterans

Description:Tim Admire and Fitha Dahana-Ellis join the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how Wounded Warrior Project connects veterans and families to life-changing mental health care and support services.

In this episode, we explore:• What happens when a veteran calls the WWP Resource Center• How Warrior Care Network delivers accelerated trauma treatment• The critical role spouses and family advocates play in recovery• Why reaching out is a sign of strength — not weakness

Whether you're navigating military transition, supporting a struggling warrior, or searching for trusted mental health solutions, this episode provides clear, actionable guidance and hope.

Tim Admire is a U.S. Army combat veteran and Warrior Support Coordinator at Wounded Warrior Project, where he triages crisis calls and connects veterans to essential resources.

Fitha Dahana-Ellis is a Veteran Advocate with Warrior Care Network and a military spouse who brings lived experience to her advocacy work, helping families access advanced trauma treatment programs 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. Presents Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline (Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight)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
#WoundedWarriorProject
#VeteranMentalHealth
#MilitaryTransition
#WarriorCareNetwork
#VeteranSupport
#MentalHealthAwareness
#VeteranCommunity
#MemorialWeek
#GrabTheLifeline

Description:

Jonny Ball joins VET S.O.S. to dive into veteran transition in the UK and share insights on mental health recovery, leadership, and global veteran support.

In this episode, we explore:

• The differences between UK and U.S. transition systems• Turning personal struggle into national policy impact• Building the UK Afghanistan Veterans Community• How industry partnerships are creating career pathways for veterans

Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, pursuing higher education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today.

About the Guest:

Jonny Ball is a UK Army veteran, policy advocate, and consultant working across the veteran support ecosystem. He co-founded the UK Afghanistan Veterans Community and plays a key role in veteran employment and mental health initiatives across the UK.

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 #MilitaryLife #VeteranSupport #MentalHealth #Leadership #InvictusGames #CareerTransition #AfghanistanVeterans #GrabTheLifeline

Description:

William “Stevo” Stephens joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into overcoming trauma, navigating military transition, and using storytelling as a tool for healing and impact. In this episode, we explore:• The challenges of transitioning from military service to civilian life• The role of trauma, identity, and mental health in that journey• How writing, podcasting, and service can create purpose

Whether you're navigating military transition, rebuilding your life, or looking for ways to support others, this episode delivers actionable insight you can use today.

About the Guest:

Stevo is a retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class, podcast host, and award-winning author dedicated to helping veterans heal through storytelling. His Reflections Series and podcasts focus on mental health, resilience, and giving a voice to those who feel unheard.

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 #VeteranPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranLife #TransitionSuccess #PTSDSupport #VeteranAdvocacy #LeadershipGrowth #Storytelling #GrabTheLifeline

Description:

Randy McElwee joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into veteran entrepreneurship and share how military leadership systems can be applied to build successful businesses. In this episode, we explore:

• The challenges of transitioning without a clear plan• How military skills translate into entrepreneurship success• Building structure, systems, and teams using Special Forces principles

Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today.

About the Guest:

Randy McElwee is a retired U.S. Army Special Forces Master Sergeant and entrepreneur. As the founder of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Athens and creator of the Going Commando Success Program, he helps veterans and business owners build disciplined, scalable organizations using proven leadership systems.

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 #GrabTheLifeline #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #StartupLife #Entrepreneurship #VeteranOwned #BusinessCoaching #SpecialForces

Description:

Kerry Steuart joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into overcoming PTSD, chronic pain, and loss of identity through yoga, mindfulness, and intentional living. In this episode, we explore:

• How veterans can process trauma and rebuild their identity after service• The power of breathwork, meditation, and yoga for mental clarity and healing• How Live Bliss is helping veterans and communities rediscover balance and purpose

Whether you're navigating military transition, managing stress, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today.

About the Guest:

Kerry Steuart is an Air Force Gulf War veteran and founder of Live Bliss. After battling PTSD and chronic illness, he transformed his life through yoga and mindfulness, now helping others find healing, balance, and purpose through coaching and wellness programs.

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 #GrabTheLifeline #VeteranMentalHealth #PTSDRecovery #Mindfulness #YogaHealing #MilitaryTransition #VeteranWellness #MentalHealthSupport #VeteranResources

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