In this powerful and inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Kristen Christy, co-creator of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and America's resilience trainer. Kristen courageously shares her deeply personal journey growing up in a dedicated Air Force family, navigating the challenges of military life, and overcoming the tragic loss of her husband to suicide in 2008. This life-altering experience ignited Kristen's passion for mental health advocacy and suicide prevention.
Kristen offers a behind-the-scenes look into the creation and launch of the 988 Lifeline, a critical resource that went national in July 2022. Designed to provide accessible mental health support, the lifeline experienced a remarkable 35% increase in calls and a staggering 1,000% surge in text messages within its first year. Kristen discusses the importance of culturally competent care, especially for veterans and military families, and how the "Ask, Care, Escort" approach can be a life-saving intervention.
Additionally, Kristen introduces the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation, which she co-founded in 2019. This innovative nonprofit organization is dedicated to building a supportive village in Colorado Springs that offers comprehensive vocational training and fosters a strong sense of community for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Kristen also shares the significance of the foundation's helicopter, tail number 39880, as a symbol of resilience and hope.
Throughout the episode, Kristen provides actionable insights on how resilience can be cultivated, the power of community support, and the vital need to openly discuss mental health and suicide prevention.
✨ Key Topics:
- Kristen's personal journey growing up in a military family and overcoming adversity
- Coping with the loss of her husband and becoming a Master Resilience Trainer
- The inspiration, development, and nationwide impact of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- The mission and growth of the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation
- Implementing the "Ask, Care, Escort" strategy for suicide prevention
- How to support veterans through vocational training and community involvement
👉 Connect with Kristen Christy: Website: https://www.kristenchristycares.com Call: 620-304-HOPE (4673)
📊 Action Items:
- Share and promote the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to raise awareness.
- Volunteer or contribute to the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation.
- Reach out to Kristen Christy for support, resources, and collaboration opportunities.
🎥 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and resources from VET S.O.S.!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #EndTheStigma #VeteranMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #988Lifeline #VeteranSupport #Resilience #KristenChristy #SuicidePrevention #MilitaryFamily #CommunitySupport

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Denise Lewis, the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility for Corporate America. Denise shares her personal journey and shines a spotlight on the life-changing work of Vet Jobs and Military Spouse Jobs—two leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping veterans, military spouses, and military-affiliated individuals successfully transition into meaningful careers.
Denise discusses how these organizations provide no-cost employment readiness, career counseling, and job placement services, connecting candidates with a network of over 3,000 employer recruiters. Backed by funders like the Call of Duty Endowment, these programs offer comprehensive support through personalized career assessments, upskilling opportunities, and training platforms designed to empower military families.
🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
✔️ The origins and mission of Vet Jobs and Military Spouse Jobs, founded by Admiral and Mrs. Kleppel
✔️ How the organizations provide tailored services to veterans, military spouses, and underserved groups like survivors of suicide and divorced military spouses
✔️ Strategies to combat ageism in hiring and how to support military spouses navigating career transitions
✔️ Why employers should hire military-affiliated talent and how partnerships with Vet Jobs and Military Spouse Jobs create diverse, reliable workforces
✔️ Details on the upcoming Employer Guard and Reserve Summit in Washington, DC—a must-attend event for employers supporting the military community
✔️ The economic impact of hiring older workers and how it benefits organizations in today’s workforce
📅 Action Steps to Get Involved:
🔗 Register for the Employer Guard and Reserve Summit: www.employguardreserve.com
🔗 Connect with Denise Lewis on LinkedIn to explore partnerships or funding opportunities for military spouse programs
🔗 Check out both programs at: https://vetjobs.org/ & https://militaryspousejobs.org/
💬 Join the Conversation:
Have thoughts or questions about veteran employment and military spouse support? Drop a comment below and let us know how you're making a difference!
🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to stay updated on more inspiring stories and actionable resources from VET S.O.S.! #vetsos #vetsospodcast #DiversityAndInclusion #HireMilitary #EmploymentOpportunities #VeteranEmployment #MilitarySpouseJobs #VetJobs #MilitaryTransition #CareerSupport #MilitaryFamilies #DiversityInWorkforce #VeteranSuccess #EmploymentResources #VeteranSupport #MilitaryCommunity

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Jordana Megonigal, CEO of Recon Network. Jordana shares her inspiring journey from a successful marketing career to becoming CEO of Recon Network, driven by her passion for supporting veterans and their families. She explains how her grandfather's experience as an Iwo Jima Marine influenced her understanding of veterans' unique challenges and motivated her to address the often-overlooked emotional and psychological aspects of military transition.
Recon Network is revolutionizing veteran support by offering personalized transition coaching with certified career and life coaches, fostering community through supportive cohort groups, and hosting impactful events like the Vet Summit. Jordana emphasizes the importance of addressing the full hierarchy of needs—from securing basic necessities to finding purpose and fulfillment in civilian life.
Gain exclusive insights into the upcoming Vet Summit on September 12-13 in upstate South Carolina, featuring dynamic speakers, hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, and a special 1940s-style fundraiser designed to bring the veteran community together. This hybrid event offers both in-person and virtual options, making it accessible to veterans nationwide.
Jordana also discusses actionable strategies for veterans to rediscover their purpose, manage emotional challenges, and align their careers with their values. Whether you're a veteran, military spouse, or supporter of the veteran community, this episode offers valuable resources and inspiration for navigating life's transitions.
Action Items:
📍 Attend the Vet Summit event on September 12-13 in upstate South Carolina.
👤 Connect with Recon Network on LinkedIn for weekly updates and resources.
📅 Schedule a transition check-in via Recon Network's website.
Connect with Recon Network:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-recon-network/posts/?feedView=all
Website: https://recon.vet/
Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories and valuable resources!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #MilitaryCommunity #VeteranResources #LifeAfterService #VeteranTransition #ReconNetwork #VetSummit #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #JordanaMegonigal

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Chris Lancia, a U.S. Army veteran with over 25 years of distinguished service, now serving as Tennessee's first Director of Military and Veterans Initiatives. Chris opens up about his personal journey transitioning out of the military and the challenges service members face when reentering civilian life.
Chris co-founded Grid Square Recon LLC, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to bridging the gap between military families and their local communities. Recognizing the frequent relocations and isolation that military families experience, Grid Square Recon provides up-to-date, location-specific resources that connect families to local services, small businesses, and job opportunities. This platform is designed to create a true sense of belonging and community integration for military families stationed at new installations.
Chris also introduces the inspiring work of the Two Ravens Foundation, an organization offering equine therapy for veterans and their families. This unique therapy program emphasizes emotional healing, stress relief, and overall mental wellness, providing critical support for those adjusting to post-military life.
Throughout the episode, Chris, Shawn, and Eric dive into strategies for leveraging networks, the importance of relationship-building, and how initiatives like Grid Square Recon and the Two Ravens Foundation are transforming the way veterans and military families access resources and support.
🔗 Connect with Chris Lancia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-lancia/
🌐 Learn More About Grid Square Recon: https://www.gridsquarerecon.com/home
🌿 Explore the Two Ravens Foundation: https://www.tworavensfoundation.org/
💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Transition Tips: Why building a network and seeking help early can ease the transition from military to civilian life.
- Community Connection: How Grid Square Recon connects military families with local resources, small businesses, and job opportunities to create stronger community ties.
- Alternative Healing: The role of equine therapy in supporting veterans' mental health and emotional well-being through the Two Ravens Foundation.
- Actionable Insights: How veterans, spouses, and small businesses can engage with and contribute to these impactful initiatives.
📌 Action Steps for Listeners:
✔️ Connect with Chris Lancia on LinkedIn to expand your network and learn more about his work.
✔️ Explore how Grid Square Recon can help military families integrate into local communities.
✔️ Invite Reed Knutson from the Two Ravens Foundation for a deeper dive into equine therapy and veteran support.
✔️ Share this episode to help other veterans and military families discover these valuable resources.
🔔 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories, practical advice, and critical resources for veterans and their families.
👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔁 Share this episode to support the mission!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #MilitaryFamilies #MentalHealthAwareness #ChrisLancia #GridSquareRecon #MilitaryFamilySupport #VeteranTransition #EquineTherapy #TwoRavensFoundation #VeteranResources #MilitarySpouses #CommunityIntegration

Are you a veteran struggling to break into the federal job market? This episode is for YOU!
In this insightful continuation, Hope White, an entrepreneur and leading expert in the federal hiring process, returns to VET S.O.S. to dive deeper into how veterans can successfully transition into stable, long-term federal careers. With firsthand experience navigating the federal employment system, Hope shares proven strategies for standing out in a competitive job market.
Drawing from her own military service starting in 1992 and her professional journey into human resources, Hope understands the unique challenges veterans face. She emphasizes the critical need for self-reliance, teaching veterans how to write powerful, targeted resumes and understand the complex federal hiring system. Hope believes success comes to those who are intentional, disciplined, and proactive in their job search.
🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Why federal jobs are the most stable and promising option for veterans.
✅ The biggest mistakes veterans make when applying for federal roles—and how to avoid them.
✅ How to write your OWN federal resume to stand out and secure interviews.
✅ The importance of understanding federal job classifications and hiring timelines.
✅ How mindset, intentionality, and faith are essential to career success.
✅ Real-life stories of veterans who succeeded by following Hope’s guidance.
💡 Hope's No-Nonsense Advice:
- Stop relying on others to write your resume—learn the system and do it yourself.
- Be intentional and proactive in your job search.
- Understand the hiring process to aim for higher-level, better-paying positions.
- Embrace discipline and learning—the federal system rewards those who put in the effort.
📌 Action Items from This Episode:
- Follow up with Hope on the Alfredo’s Coffee House project. - Connect with Hope here: https://www.facebook.com/HopefulSpeakingConsulting/
🎯 Whether you're just beginning your transition or have struggled to land a federal job, this episode is packed with practical steps to help you succeed. Don’t miss this empowering conversation designed to help veterans take control of their careers and secure the stability they deserve.
🔔 Subscribe for more expert insights, veteran success stories, and actionable strategies for navigating life after service.
👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 📢 Share with a fellow veteran!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #FederalJobs #FederalHiring #MilitaryToCivilian #JobSearchTips #HopeWhite #FederalJobs #VeteranCareers #MilitaryTransition #FederalHiringProcess #VeteranSupport #CareerSuccess #SelfReliance

Join us for an inspiring episode of VET S.O.S. Season 3, Episode 6, featuring Stephen Kaplan, retired Navy SEAL and owner of Trident Adventures in Hawaii! Stephen shares his journey from military service to founding an adrenaline-filled adventure company that offers scuba diving, snorkeling, skydiving, shooting experiences, and exclusive helicopter casts into the ocean. Learn how Stephen's mission is to help people conquer their fears, build courage, and experience life to the fullest through unique, high-thrill activities.
In this episode, Stephen also highlights the Honor Watch Foundation, dedicated to providing life-changing experiences for individuals in need, including ALS patients and veterans facing challenges. Hear touching stories like that of Dave, a man with ALS whose dream to hold an octopus was fulfilled by Stephen and his team. Discover how Trident Adventures is now VA-approved, offering professional scuba diving and helicopter cast master certifications funded by the GI Bill, empowering veterans and their dependents with valuable new skills and exciting career opportunities.
Stephen discusses how the transition from the military to civilian life was filled with unexpected challenges and how he found purpose in creating adventures that inspire personal growth. He emphasizes the therapeutic power of adventure in overcoming fear and how courage can transform lives.
Don't miss this powerful conversation about resilience, adventure, and making a difference!
✅ Explore Trident Adventures' unique and thrilling experiences
✅ Learn about VA-approved training programs for veterans and their families
✅ Hear inspiring stories of courage, transformation, and purpose
✅ Check out Trident Adventures here: https://tridentadventures.com/
Subscribe and turn on notifications to stay updated on more empowering stories!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #GIbillBenefits #NavySEALLife #StephenKaplan #TridentAdventures #HonorWatchFoundation #VeteranSupport #GIbill #ScubaDiving #Skydiving #HelicopterCast #OvercomeFear #AdventureTherapy #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEmpowerment #NavySEAL #LiveWithCourage

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Rich LaMonica, an Army veteran and the host of the Misfit Nation Podcast. Rich opens up about his personal transition out of the Army in 2015 and the initial struggles he faced in finding civilian employment. Despite doing everything "by the book," including submitting countless applications, Rich's military-focused resume hindered his ability to secure a job in the civilian sector. After receiving assistance from Hire Heroes USA, who helped him rewrite his resume in civilian terms, Rich was able to land interviews and eventually a role at the Mission Continues, where he now helps fellow veterans in their own transitions.
Rich shares the importance of persistence, resilience, and community support during the transition process. He emphasizes that veterans should never feel alone, highlighting how his wife’s support and financial planning helped him get through the tough times. Rich discusses how small victories—stacked daily—play a crucial role in overcoming setbacks and maintaining a positive mindset. He also talks about the significance of learning from failures and using those lessons to move forward.
The conversation then shifts to the creation of the Misfit Nation Podcast, which Rich launched during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to give veterans a voice and a platform to share their stories. What started as an initiative to connect with fellow veterans has grown into a full-fledged resource, with experts offering valuable advice on topics like entrepreneurship, writing, music, and more. Rich explains how the podcast helps veterans stay connected, providing them with insights and support that can be life-changing. His mission is to prevent veterans from becoming statistics, particularly when it comes to veteran suicide, by creating a space where they can find understanding and encouragement.
Rich also teases upcoming episodes, including an interview with Michelle Black, the author of Sacrifice, which promises to be another inspiring conversation. This episode serves as a reminder to reach out for support, stay connected with others in the veteran community, and stack small victories as you transition into civilian life.
Action Items:
- Check out the Misfit Nation Podcast for more insightful conversations and advice on transitioning and veteran-related topics.
- Reach out to the veteran community if you’re struggling—remember, no one should go through it alone.
- Stack small victories each day, and learn from your failures instead of letting them hold you back.
Connect with Rich LaMonica:
Visit the Misfit Nation website: https://www.themisfitnation.com/
Resources:
Hire Heroes USA: https://www.hireheroesusa.org/
Mission Continues: https://www.missioncontinues.org/
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network. Together, we can foster a stronger, more supportive community for all veterans. Let’s continue to learn from each other and grow stronger as we navigate life after service. #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MisfitNation #VeteranTransition #ArmyVeteran
#VeteranPodcast #VeteransHelpingVeterans #MissionContinues #Resilience #StackSmallVictories #VeteranCommunity

In this episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Eric welcome Robyn Grable, the founder and CEO of Talents Ascend, a platform designed to help veterans, military spouses, and other underserved communities transition into meaningful civilian careers. Robyn shares her personal journey as a Navy veteran and the inspiration behind Talents Ascend, emphasizing the importance of a skills-based approach to job seeking.
Robyn discusses the challenges veterans face in translating their military skills into civilian job opportunities and the inefficiencies of traditional resume-based hiring processes. With over 200 employers and thousands of candidates using the Talents Ascend platform, Robyn explains how they match military skills with job profiles created by small businesses, offering a more effective and inclusive way to connect talent with opportunity.
She highlights the positive changes in the workforce, such as the rise of remote work and the influence of younger generations, and stresses the importance of a human-centered, skills-based approach to hiring. Tune in to learn how Talents Ascend is making a difference in reducing veteran unemployment and underemployment rates, while helping businesses tap into a diverse and skilled talent pool.
Key Takeaways:
- The challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian careers
- The inefficiencies of traditional hiring processes and the need for a skills-based approach
- How Talents Ascend connects veterans and other underserved communities with small businesses
- The impact of COVID-19 on workforce dynamics and remote work opportunities
- Robyn’s personal motivations and the broader impact of employment challenges
Action Items:
- Create a profile on Talents Ascend’s website
- Connect with a veteran at a company of interest for hiring insights
- Explore Talents Ascend’s 5 tips for implementing a skills-based hiring approach
Resources:
Talents Ascend Website - https://talentsascend.com/
Talents Ascend LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentsascend/posts/?feedView=all
Subscribe, like, and share for more episodes of VET S.O.S. and follow the journey of veterans and others navigating their career transitions! #vetsos #vetsospodcast #Veterans #SkillsBasedHiring #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEmployment #MilitarySpouses #UnderservedCommunities #CareerTransition #RemoteWork #SmallBusinessHiring #TalentsAscend

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric welcome Jon Doolen, a U.S. Army veteran and expert recruiter at Movement Search and Delivery, who has dedicated his career to guiding veterans and transitioning service members toward meaningful civilian employment.
Drawing from his own journey from the Quartermaster Corps in the First Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, to becoming a leading advocate in the recruiting industry, Jon shares invaluable insights and practical strategies to help veterans bridge the gap between military service and civilian careers.
🔍 Key Topics Covered:
✅ Resume Mastery: How to craft a resume that stands out by tailoring it to specific job descriptions, using the right keywords to pass ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems), and highlighting your value to potential employers.
✅ Certifications that Matter: Why certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) and others are critical in translating military experience into civilian job readiness—and how to choose the right ones for your career path.
✅ Mock Interviews & Coaching: Jon’s proven mock interview process that helps veterans practice real-world interview scenarios, build confidence, and sharpen their communication skills.
✅ Translating Military Skills: Practical tips for converting military roles and terminology into civilian language that hiring managers understand and value.
✅ Finding Purpose After Service: The importance of aligning your passions and skills with career opportunities to build a fulfilling and sustainable civilian life.
💡 Jon’s message is clear: Veterans have incredible skills and leadership experience, but success in the civilian workforce requires strategic preparation, self-reflection, and the right support.
🎯 Actionable Takeaways:
1️⃣ Connect with Jon Doolen for one-on-one coaching, resume reviews, and personalized career guidance.
2️⃣ Pursue industry-recognized certifications that align with your career goals.
3️⃣ Refine your resume and interview skills to confidently compete in the job market.
4️⃣ Discover your true purpose and align it with meaningful work in the civilian world.
🔗 Connect with Jon Doolen:
🌐 Website: https://getdoolen.com/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/doolen-strategy-partners/posts/?feedView=all
📢 Don’t Miss Out!
If you’re ready to take control of your career transition, this episode is your roadmap to success. Hit LIKE, drop a COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more expert advice, inspiring stories, and valuable resources for veterans navigating civilian life.
🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode that could change your future!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSuccess #JobSearchStrategies #PMPCertification #VeteranEmpowerment #VeteranSupport #CareerTransition #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranJobs #JonDoolen #ResumeTips #MilitaryTransition #VeteranAdvocate #JobSearchSuccess

In this impactful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric welcome retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Chris Roness, founder of Chris Roness Enterprises and creator of the transformative human performance and mindfulness system, "You Matter." Known by his call sign "Switch," Chris shares his extraordinary journey from enlisting in the Air Force to becoming a Special Operations helicopter pilot and officer. His path wasn’t easy—facing early challenges like vision setbacks—but his resilience and determination led him to serve for 27 years in elite roles.
Following the tragic loss of six of his brothers-in-arms to suicide within four months, Chris dedicated himself to addressing veteran mental health through proactive, life-affirming strategies. His mission is clear: to shift the focus from simply preventing suicide to teaching veterans how to truly live their lives with purpose and passion.
🛠️ Key Topics Explored:
- Chris’s Military Journey: Overcoming personal and professional challenges, rising through the ranks to lead in Special Operations.
- The "You Matter" System: A holistic framework designed to help veterans assess and improve their well-being across seven core areas:
- Purpose – Finding meaning beyond service
- Environment – Creating supportive spaces
- People – Building trustworthy relationships
- Provision – Managing finances and resources
- Physical Health – Maintaining physical wellness
- Psychological Health – Prioritizing mental health
- Pastimes/Possessions – Engaging in fulfilling activities
- Innovative Tools: The "Gas Gage" and "Get Awesome Scale" help veterans measure and manage their well-being in real-time.
- Lifeguards & Confidants: The critical role of trusted individuals ("lifeguards") in providing support during personal crises.
- Storytelling for Healing: How sharing personal stories fosters resilience, self-discovery, and emotional connection.
- Rethinking Military Culture: Advocating for a cultural shift in the Department of Defense to prioritize the human aspect of its force.
Chris also hints at his exciting "We Bus" program, a community-driven initiative focused on outreach and storytelling, which will be explored in greater depth in a future episode.
💡 This episode is a must-watch for veterans, military families, and anyone passionate about mental health, resilience, and purposeful living.
Connect with Chris Roness: https://youmatr.org/
🔔 Subscribe to the VET S.O.S. YouTube Channel for more stories, strategies, and resources to empower veterans and their families.
👍 Like this video to support our mission.
💬 Comment below: Share your thoughts or ask Chris a question for future episodes!
#vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranMentalHealth #ResilienceTraining #MindfulnessForVeterans #VeteranEmpowerment #Veterans #MentalHealth #YouMatter #Mindfulness #MilitaryTransition #Resilience #ChrisRoness #VeteranSupport #MilitaryWellness #SuicidePrevention