In this episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Karleton Lawrence and Dara Lora, co-founders of MILCRUIT, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans and military families in their career transitions. Karl, a retired Marine and Director of Talent Grow Military, and Dara, a retired Air Force member and Acquisition Manager at Kinetics RPO, share their personal transition journeys and how they launched MILCRUIT to bridge the gap between veterans and meaningful employment opportunities.
MILCRUIT connects transitioning service members and military spouses directly with recruiters and talent acquisition professionals, offering actionable support and a growing network of over 200 recruiters across industries and states. Their mission is to build a supportive community where veterans and military families can access direct job opportunities—all at no cost to job seekers.
In this insightful conversation, Karl and Dara delve into the challenges many veterans face when entering the civilian workforce, including translating military skills into civilian terms, overcoming networking barriers, and understanding corporate hiring processes. They share practical strategies for overcoming these challenges and provide advice on how veterans and military spouses can confidently navigate their job search.
You'll also hear about MILCRUIT's future plans to expand its reach, create partnerships with industry leaders, and develop specialized programs tailored to high-demand industries like technology, healthcare, and skilled trades. Their vision is to create a robust support system that empowers veterans to thrive in every sector of the workforce.
Tune in to learn:
- How Karl and Dara successfully navigated their military-to-civilian transitions
- The importance of networking and community support in career development
- MILCRUIT’s mission to provide veterans with direct access to recruiters actively hiring
- Practical tips for translating military experience into civilian roles
- How you can get involved as a veteran, military spouse, or recruiter
👉 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more stories that empower the veteran community!
Connect with MILCRUIT:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milcruit/posts/?feedView=all Website: https://member.meritorious.us/topics/20508/feed
#VETSOS #MILCRUIT #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #CareerSupport #Networking #VeteranEmployment #VeteransInTech #VeteransInHealthcare #SkilledTrades #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryToCivilian #CareerTransition #VeteranNetworking #HireVeterans #MilitarySpouseEmployment #VeteransInBusiness #TransitionSupport #RecruitVeterans #EmpowerVeterans

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Aleha Ingle, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran with 21 years of service and the visionary founder of Work Culture Works. Aleha shares her inspiring transition story from military service to entrepreneurship during the challenging COVID-19 era. Frustrated by the inadequacies of the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), Aleha took matters into her own hands, becoming a self-taught expert in navigating the civilian workforce.
Her firsthand experience with toxic work environments in the corporate world fueled her passion for creating healthier, more productive workplaces. This led to the creation of Work Culture Works, a consulting agency dedicated to helping managers and leaders build positive, supportive work cultures that reduce turnover and improve overall performance.
🔍 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✨ Aleha’s personal challenges transitioning from military to civilian life during the COVID-19 pandemic.
✨ Why the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) often fails veterans—and how to overcome these gaps.
✨ The toxic workplace experiences that inspired Aleha to start her own consulting agency.
✨ The three core service packages of Work Culture Works:
- Basic Training: Foundational guidance for fostering positive leadership and management practices.
- In-Depth Investigations: Comprehensive analysis of workplace dynamics to identify and resolve issues.
- Employee-Perspective Assessments: Anonymous feedback directly from employees to help leaders make impactful changes.
✨ How Aleha goes undercover in organizations to uncover hidden workplace challenges.
✨ Actionable advice for transitioning service members: key questions to ask during job interviews about company culture, employee recognition programs, and veteran onboarding support.
✨ The importance of mental health, adaptability, and seeking help when navigating career transitions.
💡 Key Takeaways for Veterans and Leaders:
🔹 Don’t assume military leadership styles translate directly into civilian workplaces—learn to adapt.
🔹 Be proactive in seeking out educational opportunities and certifications while still in service.
🔹 Ask potential employers about how they recognize achievements, support career growth, and onboard veterans.
🔹 Prioritize mental health and don’t be afraid to ask for help—community support is vital.
🚀 Connect with Aleha Ingle:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alehaingle/
🔔 Subscribe for more stories of resilience, success, and actionable advice for veterans transitioning into civilian life!
👍 Like, Comment, and Share this episode to help spread the word and support the veteran community!
#Veterans #CareerTransition #WorkplaceCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #MilitaryToCivilian #AlehaIngle #WorkCultureWorks #VETSOS #VeteranSuccess #VeteranOwnedBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #EmployeeEngagement #MentalHealthMatters

In this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Jennifer Burks, a program analyst specializing in personal branding and career marketing. As a military spouse and career transitioner, Jennifer shares her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges, leveraging personal networks, and building a successful career.
Jennifer recounts her pivotal moment of resourcefulness—using Taco Bell sauce packets to create a family meal—which sparked a viral LinkedIn post and launched her consulting business. She discusses the balance between offering free and paid services, the importance of recognizing one's value, and how self-care and community support play crucial roles in successful transitions. Jennifer also delves into how authenticity and vulnerability can strengthen personal branding and create meaningful professional connections.
Key Highlights:
- Jennifer's transition journey and initial challenges after relocating post-military retirement
- Discovering and building a personal brand through authentic storytelling
- The power of networking and authentic connections on platforms like LinkedIn
- Balancing free and paid consulting services while setting healthy boundaries
- Prioritizing self-care, managing compassion fatigue, and building a personal board of directors
- Exciting projects: "Talent Tuesday" networking initiative and an upcoming animated LinkedIn series designed to simplify professional branding concepts
- Actionable advice for military spouses and veterans navigating career changes
Join us for practical insights and motivation to navigate career transitions and leverage your unique strengths!
📚 Learn more about Jennifer Burks and her work:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/militarywhatsnext/
👥 Connect with VET S.O.S. through our website: https://vetsospodcast.com
👍 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more stories and strategies to support veterans and military families!
#VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #CareerBranding #JenniferBurks #VeteranSupport #Networking #PersonalBranding #MilitarySpouse #CareerDevelopment #Authenticity #SelfCare #NetworkingSuccess #MilitarySpouseStrong #CareerGrowth #AuthenticBranding #ProfessionalDevelopment

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Patrice Sutherland, President and Chairman, and Amy Reiter, Director of Operations at MedTechVets. Founded in 2014 by Mike Minogue and Alex Gorsky, MedTechVets is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping military veterans transition into thriving careers in the medical technology industry, including medical devices, life sciences, and pharmaceuticals.
Patrice and Amy share insights into MedTechVets' impactful seven-week cohort program, which boasts a remarkable 91% employment rate post-graduation. The program offers personalized mentorship, resume building, interview preparation, and networking opportunities, all designed to translate military skills into civilian success. Participants are matched with industry mentors based on personality assessments and professional goals, ensuring tailored guidance throughout the program. The program culminates in a high-impact networking conference, connecting veterans with top industry leaders and potential employers.
The episode highlights the organization’s commitment to expanding services to military spouses and its call for support through time, treasure, and talent. Patrice emphasizes the importance of community involvement and financial contributions to sustain and grow the program. Amy discusses how MedTechVets adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding their reach nationwide and transitioning to a fully virtual format to better serve veterans across the country.
Key Topics Covered:
- MedTechVets’ mission, founding story, and history
- Detailed program structure and personalized onboarding process
- Success stories of veterans who transitioned into med tech roles
- Plans for expanding services to military spouses and increasing veteran outreach
- How individuals and organizations can get involved and support their mission
Action Items:
- Spread the word about MedTechVets and their programs by sharing this episode with your network.
- Connect with MedTechVets on LinkedIn to explore volunteering, mentoring, or financial support opportunities through their website https://medtechvets.org/.
- If you're a transitioning veteran or military spouse, consider joining the program to explore a rewarding career in the medical technology industry.
- Encourage organizations in the med tech space to partner with MedTechVets to provide more opportunities for veterans.
Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and actionable advice for veterans!
#VETSOS #MedTechVets #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #MedicalTechnology #VeteranEmployment #CareerTransition #NonprofitSupport #Mentorship #VeteranSuccess #NetworkingOpportunities #MentorshipMatters #VeteranSuccessStories #NetworkingForVeterans

In this empowering episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Clay Anderson, a 20-year Navy veteran and advocate for veteran transition success. Clay shares the incredible opportunities offered by the HKPO Veterans Academy, a 501(c)(3) DOD Skill Bridge Program providing high-value training in project management, Lean Six Sigma, and leadership development.
Discover how this flexible, rolling-enrollment program—valued at nearly $22,000—delivers personalized mentorship with Master Black Belts, hands-on industry projects, and expert resume and LinkedIn optimization. Clay emphasizes the importance of early transition preparation and calls for greater awareness of this impactful program. The Academy's mission is to empower transitioning service members with practical skills and certifications that enhance employability and bridge the gap to civilian careers.
Clay also highlights how the program extends support beyond participants to include family members and dependents, providing mentorship and connecting them with veteran service organizations. The program's adaptive approach ensures that service members can tailor their learning experience to their unique career goals and time availability, creating a truly customized transition journey.
Whether you're transitioning from active duty or looking to upskill for the civilian workforce, this episode is packed with insights and actionable steps to support your journey. The hosts even compare the program's customizable approach to a "Mongolian barbecue" of transition services—serving up exactly what each participant needs to succeed!
✅ Action Items:
- Spread the word about the HKPO Veterans Academy to support transitioning service members.
- Connect with Clay Anderson on LinkedIn to learn more and get involved.
- Visit the HKPO Veterans Academy website for program details and enrollment information.
👥 Connect with HKPO Veterans Academy: HKPO Veterans Academy Website: https://www.hkpoveteransacademy.org/
📚 Learn More:Explore how the HKPO Veterans Academy can support your transition today! Gain in-demand certifications and real-world experience to stand out in your civilian career search.
📣 Don't Forget to Subscribe!Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories and resources to empower veterans and military families.
#VeteranTransition #HKPOVeteransAcademy #SkillBridge #LeadershipDevelopment #VETSOS #MilitaryToCivilian #LeanSixSigma #ProjectManagement #VeteranSupport #CareerTransition #MilitarySkills #VeteranEmployment

In this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Hope White, an accomplished entrepreneur and expert in the federal hiring process. Raised in a military family, Hope's early experiences with military life deeply influenced her mission to empower veterans in their transition to civilian careers. Drawing from her diverse background in the Army, federal government, and corporate America, Hope brings valuable insights into the complexities of navigating post-military employment.
As the founder of Hopeful Speaking, Hope provides a comprehensive suite of services, including career development strategies, federal resume writing, interview coaching, and leadership training specifically tailored for veterans. Her hands-on approach demystifies the federal hiring system, helping veterans understand job application processes and maximize their employment opportunities.
Hope also discusses her significant role in Alfredo's Coffee House, a thriving virtual community dedicated to supporting veterans. This space fosters meaningful connections and offers mental health resources, allowing veterans to share experiences and build resilience. Hope emphasizes that maintaining mental health and strong social ties are crucial for a successful transition.
Throughout the episode, hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew explore Hope's entrepreneurial journey, the impact of her work in the veteran community, and her unwavering commitment to empowering veterans. Hope candidly shares how persistence, problem-solving, and her deep-rooted faith have guided her mission to support service members.
✨ Key Topics Covered:
- Hope White's military family background and inspiration for veteran advocacy
- Step-by-step guidance on navigating the federal hiring process
- Tailored career development, resume optimization, and leadership training for veterans
- The importance of mental health and community support through Alfredo's Coffee House
- Overcoming challenges through faith, resilience, and a solutions-focused mindset
📚 Action Items:
- Connect with Hope White to discover tailored resources and support for veterans https://www.facebook.com/HopefulSpeakingConsulting/
- Engage with Alfredo's Coffee House to become part of a supportive veteran community
- Prioritize mental health, self-care, and maintaining community connections during transition
Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more empowering stories, expert advice, and essential resources for veterans!
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #HopeWhite #FederalHiring #CareerDevelopment #MentalHealthAwareness #AlfredosCoffeeHouse #VETSOS #LeadershipTraining #CareerSuccess #VeteranEntrepreneurship #MentalHealthMatters #VeteranEntrepreneur #CommunitySupport #VeteranSuccess #EmpoweringVeterans
Watch now and be inspired by how Hope White is transforming veteran transitions and making a lasting impact on the community!

In this unfiltered and empowering episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Keith Cassant, a veteran with 22 years of distinguished military service, to share his raw and honest story about the difficulties he faced transitioning into civilian life. Now a cybersecurity professional and dedicated mentor, Keith opens up about his struggles, his turning points, and how mentorship helped him overcome significant obstacles.
Keith introduces his trademark "Band Aid Ripper" mentorship style—delivering the hard truths upfront to set clear and realistic expectations for veterans navigating their transition. His tough-love approach is designed to prepare veterans for the mental, emotional, and professional challenges they will inevitably face.
Keith’s story is a must-hear for veterans feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the next step. His insight into the power of mentorship, personal accountability, and persistence will resonate with anyone seeking to take control of their future.
🔑 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
- Keith’s personal transition story from the military to cybersecurity and mentorship
- How medical setbacks derailed his initial career plans and how he pivoted
- The "Band Aid Ripper" approach: Why veterans need honest, no-sugarcoating advice
- Why having multiple mentors is critical for a successful transition
- The importance of putting in the hard work and not relying solely on others
- Insights into balancing a full-time career while volunteering with veteran organizations
- How veterans can prepare mentally and emotionally for the realities of civilian life
🤝 Keith's Volunteer Work:
Keith dedicates his time to supporting veterans through several impactful organizations:
- Hire Heroes USA – Guiding veterans in job searches and career planning
- American Corporate Partners (ACP) – Offering mentorship and professional development
- USO Pathfinders – Assisting transitioning service members and their families
🔥 Keith’s Advice to Veterans:
✔️ Find multiple mentors who will challenge and support you.
✔️ Be mentally prepared for the transition—it’s tough but survivable.
✔️ Don’t expect anyone to hand you success. Put in the work.
✔️ Stay resilient. Every effort you make brings you closer to your goals.
🎯 ACTION ITEMS:
📌 Connect with Keith Cassant on https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithcassant/ for mentorship and professional insights.
📌 Apply Keith’s advice: Push through challenges, stay proactive, and never give up.
🔔 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more real stories, actionable advice, and veteran support.
👍 Like this video if Keith’s insights motivated you to take action.
💬 Comment below: What hard truth have you learned during your transition?
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #MentorshipMatters #VETSOS #KeithCassant #CybersecurityCareers #VeteransHelpingVeterans #TransitionSuccess #VeteransInTech #ResilientVeteran #HardTruths #NeverGiveUp

In this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Colonel David Grant and Master Sergeant Lorena Wilson to discuss the vital work of the Soldier for Life (SFL) program. Their conversation dives deep into how SFL empowers service members, veterans, and military families by fostering long-term connections and providing critical resources for a seamless transition into civilian life.
🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🔹 SFL’s Mission: How Soldier for Life bridges the gap between active duty and civilian life by engaging with organizations across the country.
🔹 Key Programs: An inside look at the PACE Program, Army Transition Assistance Program (ATAP), and ETS Sponsorship, which offers essential transition support, including food assistance and local sponsorship.
🔹 Combatting Veteran Homelessness: SFL’s initiatives to reduce homelessness and address critical wellness needs in the veteran community.
🔹 Supporting Military Spouses: Addressing the staggering 22% military spouse unemployment rate and how SFL collaborates with organizations to create meaningful employment opportunities.
🔹 Mental Health & Wellness: SFL’s focus on promoting mental health resources and tackling the stigma around seeking help.
🔹 Community Involvement: The importance of local communities engaging with SFL to create supportive networks for transitioning service members.
📌 Why This Episode Matters:
Every year, thousands of service members leave the military, and the transition process can be overwhelming. Colonel Grant and Master Sergeant Wilson emphasize the importance of early preparation, continuous support, and utilizing available programs to ensure a successful transition. Their insights shed light on how the military community can better support soldiers before, during, and after their service.
🚀 Action Item:
✅ Connect with Soldier for Life to bring their resources to your local community and strengthen the support network for veterans and their families.
🔗 Helpful Links:
Follow Soldier for Life on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/usarmysfl/posts/?feedView=all
Learn more about Soldier for Life: https://soldierforlife.army.mil/
🎧 Listen, Learn, and Lead:
If you’re a service member, veteran, military spouse, or advocate for the military community, this episode is for you. Gain actionable insights and discover how you can make a difference.
💡 Enjoyed this episode? Hit the LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE to the channel, and SHARE this conversation to help spread awareness and support for veterans and their families!
📞 Need Support? Reach out through the VET S.O.S. website for resources and guidance on navigating your transition. https://vetsospodcast.com
#Veterans #SoldierForLife #MilitaryTransition #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #MilitarySpouseEmployment #VETSOS #VeteranResources #SupportOurTroops

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and new co-host Eric Brew engage in an in-depth conversation with Reggie Gooden, a retired Command Sergeant Major with an impressive 30-year military career. Now serving as the Regional Director for Still Serving Veterans, Reggie passionately discusses his transition journey and his mission to support fellow veterans in navigating the often-challenging path to civilian life.
Reggie sheds light on the inconsistencies in transition assistance programs across military bases and how Still Serving Veterans is dedicated to filling those critical gaps. Learn how this 17-year nonprofit organization, backed by influential partners like the Call of Duty Endowment, offers comprehensive and free support services for veterans. These services include personalized career transition coaching, advanced resume writing, VA benefit assistance, interview preparation, and immediate need support such as aid with utilities and homelessness prevention.
Reggie emphasizes the significance of self-awareness for veterans—understanding individual skill sets, engaging in honest self-assessments, and proactively preparing for the civilian workforce. He also addresses common misconceptions employers may have about veterans and the ongoing efforts to bridge this understanding. Additionally, Reggie highlights the often-overlooked veteran population on college campuses and the necessity of supporting them in their career pursuits.
Through real-life examples and actionable insights, Reggie underscores the value of being proactive, seeking guidance, and building meaningful networks to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran looking for career advancement, or an organization aiming to support veterans, this episode is packed with valuable strategies and resources.
Action Items:
✅ Reach out to Reggie Gooden at Still Serving Veterans ([email protected] or 334-384-9111) to learn more about their comprehensive support services.
✅ Connect with Still Serving Veterans on LinkedIn to stay informed on their latest initiatives and programs. https://ssv.org/
✅ Explore partnership opportunities with Still Serving Veterans to enhance veteran support efforts in your community.
Stay connected with VET S.O.S. for more inspiring stories, expert advice, and vital resources to empower veterans and their families!
#VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #StillServingVeterans #CareerTransition #VETSOS #VeteranResources #VeteranEmpowerment #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranSuccess #TransitionAssistance #EmpowerVeterans
Subscribe and follow for more impactful episodes!

Welcome to a monumental episode of VET S.O.S. as we proudly celebrate ONE YEAR of supporting veterans, service members, and military families in their transition to civilian life! Hosts Shawn and Mark reflect on the powerful insights shared by past guests and announce exciting changes and future plans for the podcast.
Joining us for this special episode is Eric Brew from American Corporate Partners (ACP)—a dedicated mentor and advocate for veterans. Eric shares his thoughts on the importance of storytelling in the transition journey and why veterans must give themselves permission to explore new career paths. In a major announcement, Eric is officially introduced as the new co-host of VET S.O.S., with Mark stepping into a behind-the-scenes supporting role.
💥 Episode Highlights:
🔑 Top "Knowledge Bombs" from Past Episodes: Revisit Alfredo Torres' powerful "transition buffet" analogy, encouraging veterans to explore various resources and choose what works best.
🏆 Tyron Hewitt's Job Search Strategies: Learn how to effectively engage in job searches, negotiate salaries, and advocate for your worth in interviews.
💪 Destiny's Story of Grit and Determination: Eric Brew highlights the resilience and strength within the veteran community.
🤝 Networking & Building Authentic Connections: Discover why quality over quantity is key when it comes to networking, as discussed by Will Gibson and others.
🎯 The Importance of Self-Promotion: Gain insights into how veterans can confidently market themselves in interviews and professional spaces.
🚀 Exciting Future Plans for VET S.O.S.:
- Turning VET S.O.S. into a Business: Expanding our reach and impact to provide even more support for the veteran community.
- Hosting Live Events: Join us at upcoming national veteran-focused events like Vets on Tap to network and connect in person.
- Exclusive VET S.O.S. Merchandise: Get ready for branded swag that helps you show your support for the veteran community.
- Community Contests: Participate in our upcoming contest where fans vote for their favorite episode, and VET S.O.S. will donate to the featured organization!
📣 Action Items:
- Engage with Us: Share your favorite VET S.O.S. moment in the comments and on social media using #Pairing.
- Vote in Our Contest: Help us support veteran organizations by voting for your favorite episode!
- Connect at Live Events: Don’t miss the chance to meet us in person at veteran events across the country.
🔔 Make sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on new episodes, live events, and ways to get involved in the veteran community.
Follow VET S.O.S. on Social Media:
📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetsospodcast/
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/vetsospodcast
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088481920773
🌐 Official Website: https://vetsospodcast.com
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #EricBrew #VeteranCommunity #Networking #CareerGrowth #OneYearAnniversary #VeteranResources #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteransHelpingVeterans #NetworkingForVeterans #CareerTransition #LiveEvents