VET S.O.S. Presents Learning Lifeline

Alex Blake joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how Veterans Upward Bound supports veterans pursuing college, trade school, and certificate programs. As Program Director in Washington, D.C., Alex explains how this federally funded TRIO program helps first-generation and low-income veterans navigate education, access resources, and build community.

In this episode, we explore:
• How Veterans Upward Bound supports veterans before and during school
• Eligibility requirements and services provided at no cost
• Why education access is a critical transition issue
• How veterans can find a local Veterans Upward Bound program

Whether you're navigating military transition, returning to school later in life, or searching for education support beyond the GI Bill, this episode provides clear, actionable guidance.

Alex Blake is the Program Director for Veterans Upward Bound of Washington, D.C. With a background in public health and education access, she is a national advocate for veteran education programs and expanding opportunity for underserved veteran populations.

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 (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)
VET S.O.S. — Learning Lifeline (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 #VeteranEducation #LearningLifeline #VeteransUpwardBound #MilitaryTransition #HigherEducation #VeteranResources #TRIO #FirstGenVeterans #EducationSupport #GrabTheLifeline

Description:
Scott Brower joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into veteran transition, higher education, and how service-based academic models help veterans thrive beyond the uniform.

In this episode, we explore:
• Why military transition can be challenging—even for senior leaders
• How purpose and service drive veteran fulfillment after retirement
• The mission and impact of the Bass Military Scholars Program
• Why universities benefit from integrating veteran experiences

Whether you're navigating military transition, pursuing graduate education, or supporting veterans on campus, this conversation delivers clear, actionable insights you can use today.

About the Guest:
Brigadier General (Ret.) Scott Brower is the Director of the Bass Military Scholars Program at Vanderbilt University. A career Army Special Forces officer, he now dedicates his work to helping veterans succeed in advanced education while continuing their legacy of service.

Grab the Lifeline:
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.

Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes:
VET S.O.S.
VET S.O.S. – Operation Startup (Veteran Entrepreneur Spotlight)
VET S.O.S. – Learning Lifeline (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
#LearningLifeline #VETSOS #VeteranEducation #MilitaryTransition #VeteransInCollege #HigherEducation #VeteranPurpose #GraduateSchool #GrabTheLifeline

Description:
Michael “Mac” McAndrew joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how technical education and workforce-aligned training create powerful career outcomes for veterans and military families. Drawing on over 20 years of Air Force Special Warfare experience and his current leadership role at Texas State Technical College, Mac shares insights on education, transition, and purpose after service.

In this episode, we explore:
• Veteran transition challenges and redefining post-military value
• Why technical colleges are critical to today’s workforce economy
• Hazelwood Act and GI Bill strategies for Texas veterans
• How industry partnerships drive job placement and earnings

Whether you're navigating military transition, pursuing hands-on careers, or looking for education that leads directly to employment, this conversation provides clear, actionable guidance.

About the Guest:
Michael “Mac” McAndrew is a retired U.S. Air Force Special Warfare Operator and Senior Director of Military and Veterans Services at Texas State Technical College, where he leads statewide veteran education and workforce initiatives.

Grab the Lifeline:
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.

Follow the Show & Explore More Episodes:
VET S.O.S.
VET S.O.S. — Operation Startup
VET S.O.S. — Learning Lifeline

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 #LearningLifeline #VeteranEducation #MilitaryTransition #TechnicalCareers #TradeSchool #VeteranSupport #WorkforceDevelopment #GIbill #GrabTheLifeline

April Blackmon Strange joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how the University of Kansas supports one of the largest military-affiliated student populations in the country. She shares insight into building student-centric systems that help veterans, service members, and military families succeed in higher education.

In this episode, we explore:
• What makes KU’s Military Affiliated Student Center a national model
• How centralized VA, GI Bill®, and VR&E support improves outcomes
• Scholarships, emergency aid, and campus culture for military students
• Why choosing the right university matters after military service

Whether you're navigating military transition, pursuing higher education, or helping a family member choose a school, this conversation offers clear, practical guidance you can use today.

April Blackmon Strange is Director of the Military Affiliated Student Center at the University of Kansas and a longtime advocate for military-connected learners. With experience spanning the USO, higher education, and military family services, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work.

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

#LearningLifeline #VETSOS #VeteranEducation #MilitaryTransition #StudentVeterans #HigherEducation #GIbill #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranSupport #GrabTheLifeline

Ryan Novotny joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how veterans can successfully navigate military-to-civilian transition through professional organizations like the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME).

A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and senior construction executive, Ryan shares firsthand insight into SAME’s Career Transition Workshop (CTW)—a program designed to prepare veterans for civilian careers through mentorship, resume development, interview preparation, and direct employer access.

In this episode, we explore:
• Why professional organizations are critical to veteran career success
• How SAME’s Career Transition Workshop prepares veterans beyond TAP
• Translating military leadership into civilian-ready skills
• The importance of mentorship and long-term professional networks

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

Ryan Novotny is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and registered professional engineer with over 27 years of leadership experience. He currently serves as a Senior Project Executive with Gilbane Building Company and is a passionate advocate for veteran mentorship, career development, and transition success.

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 #LearningLifeline #VeteranPodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCareers #VeteranLeadership #CareerAfterMilitary #VeteranMentorship #VeteranEducation #ProfessionalOrganizations #GrabTheLifeline

On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, host Shawn Welsh welcomes Dan Roby, Vice President of Brand Expansion and Business Development at American Military University (AMU) and retired Chief Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force.

Dan discusses AMU’s 20-year legacy of serving military members, veterans, and their families through affordable, flexible, and mission-driven education. Learn how AMU has become a trusted partner for those who serve by offering:

• Tuition at the military TA level and grants for veterans and dependents

• Monthly course start dates to fit unpredictable schedules

• No-cost textbooks or tech fees

• Transfer credit for prior military experience

• Comprehensive mental health and career services programs

• Community engagement and veteran-focused outreach

AMU doesn’t just talk about being “military friendly”—they live it. Their commitment to the military community extends far beyond the classroom, helping service members build careers, strengthen families, and achieve lasting success.

💡 VET S.O.S. Network brings you stories that connect, inspire, and empower veterans and their families.
Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline!

🎙️ Available on all podcast platforms:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | vetsospodcast.com

#VETSOS #VeteranEducationResources #MilitaryLearning #AMU #VeteranTransition #MilitaryCommunity #EducationForVeterans #VeteranReady #OnlineUniversity #GrabTheLifeline

On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, host Shawn Welsh welcomes Eric Kready, retired U.S. Army Military Police Officer and Director on the ASIS International Professional Certification Board. Eric shares the mission behind Operation Career Change, a suite of free transition tools that help veterans and first responders move into the private sector security industry.

Listeners will gain valuable insight into:

• The three free tools of Operation Career Change

• Translating military achievements into civilian-ready language

• How certifications like the CPP, PSP, and APP give veterans a competitive edge

• Scholarship programs for veterans through ASIS and the COOL initiative

• The importance of building professional networks before leaving service

Whether you’re just starting your transition or already exploring a career in security, Eric’s advice will help you bridge the gap between military service and civilian success.

💡 Don’t Drown in the Sea of Transition—Grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline!

Follow the VET S.O.S. Network for more educational episodes and resources.
🎙️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/65zCMDoUhGdlA6EDgFDY1l
🌐 Website: vetsospodcast.com
📱 Instagram: @vetsospodcast
🐦 X: @vetsospodcast
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast

#VeteranEducation #VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #ASISInternational #OperationCareerChange #VeteranSupport #SecurityCareers #CareerReadiness #TransitionResources #GrabTheLifeline

On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Network’s Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, host Shawn Welsh welcomes Stephan Murphy, Director of Georgetown University’s Military and Veteran Resource Center (MAVRC).

Stephan shares his journey from the U.S. Army to higher education leadership, revealing how Georgetown empowers its more than 1,500 military-connected students through intentional programming, academic excellence, and a strong community network.

Learn how Georgetown’s commitment to veterans includes Yellow Ribbon participation, dynamic student organizations, career readiness programs, and collaborations that extend well beyond the classroom. Stephan also discusses the university’s data-driven approach to student engagement and the power of mentorship in building the next generation of veteran leaders.

If you’re a veteran, service member, or military spouse considering higher education, this episode provides invaluable insight into what makes Georgetown a top choice for military-connected learners.

🎙 Show: Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight
🌐 Network: VET S.O.S.
💬 Tagline: Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline!

#VETSOS #VeteranEducationalResources #GeorgetownUniversity #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryTransition #VeteranStudents #HigherEdSupport #YellowRibbonProgram #VeteranLeadership #MilitaryCommunity #GrabTheLifeline

Join host Dr. Hira on the VET S.O.S. Network’s Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight as she interviews Jon Baldessari, Director of the Veterans Resource Center at the University of Miami. Jon shares the powerful story behind the creation of the VRC and its mission to empower more than 600 veterans and military-connected students pursuing higher education.

From the Yellow Ribbon Program to the Veteran Students Organization and community events like the Military and Veteran Resource Expo, Jon highlights how the university builds bridges between education, service, and post-graduation success. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how universities can design inclusive spaces that celebrate, support, and strengthen the military community.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans, service members, spouses, and educators committed to fostering successful transitions from the military to the classroom and beyond.

🎧 Subscribe to the VET S.O.S. Network and remember — Don’t drown in the sea of transition, grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline!

#VeteranEducation #VETSOSNetwork #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryStudents #HigherEdSupport #VeteranCommunity #UniversityOfMiami #TransitionResources #VETSOS #StudentVeteransOfAmerica #YellowRibbon #GrabTheLifeline

In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Network’s Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, Dr. Hira welcomes Nikki Harrison from the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC)—a true advocate for military-connected families. Nikki shares her story of resilience growing up as a military child, raising two sons while navigating life as a Marine Corps spouse, and now empowering others through MCEC’s mission.

Discover how MCEC’s programs—ranging from parent support webinars and literacy training to professional development for educators—help ensure every military-connected child is ready for work, college, and life. Nikki also discusses the growing influence of AI in education and how families can adapt in this evolving landscape.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on navigating transitions, building community after military life, and finding balance between family, education, and service.

🎙 VET S.O.S. Network continues its mission to spotlight organizations making a lasting difference for veterans, service members, and military families.
#VETSOS #VeteranEntrepreneurSpotlight #MilitaryEducation #MilitaryChild #MCEC #VeteranFamilySupport #TransitionResources #MilitarySpouse #VeteranCommunity #MilitaryConnected #GrabTheLifeline