VET S.O.S. Presents Operation Startup

Most VA loan denials aren't final. Jason Sharon explains why veterans hear "no"—and how to turn it into a "yes."

Many veterans believe a denied VA loan means the end of the road. In this episode of Operation Startup, 20-year U.S. Navy veteran and mortgage broker Jason Sharon explains why that's often not true. Drawing on his experience as a former nuclear engineer and owner of Home Loans Inc., Jason breaks down the myths surrounding VA loans, the mindset that carried him from military service into entrepreneurship, and why understanding the guidelines can make all the difference.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Learn why many VA loan applications are denied unnecessarily—and how the right lender can save the deal.

• Understand how military values like discipline, respect, and accountability continue to drive success long after transition.

• Discover the hiring system Jason uses to build a dependable "work family" and avoid costly hiring mistakes.

• Hear why he believes The E-Myth Revisited is the most important business book every aspiring entrepreneur should read.

About Jason Sharon

Jason Sharon is a 20-year U.S. Navy veteran who served as a nuclear engineer before transitioning into the mortgage industry. Today, he is the Owner and Broker of Home Loans Inc. in Charleston, South Carolina, specializing in VA loans, first-time homebuyers, and investment property financing across the Southeast. Jason is also the author of five mortgage books and has been featured as a mortgage expert by Forbes, Yahoo Finance, and Money.com.

🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your review helps us reach more veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses, and entrepreneurs looking for trusted guidance and real-world experience.

Resources Mentioned

• The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
• Home Loans Inc.
• VA Home Loan Program

Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network

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Military retirement isn't the hardest transition—losing your purpose is. Here's how to build your next mission.

Many veterans spend decades following a clear mission, only to discover that the hardest part begins after the uniform comes off.

Air Force veteran and executive coach Manny Piñeiro shares why purpose—not employment—is the key to a successful transition, and how one conversation with his son inspired him to build Making Time Count, a leadership company now impacting organizations around the world.

From overcoming the fear of failure to redefining success beyond rank and title, this conversation offers practical wisdom for veterans, entrepreneurs, and leaders preparing for what's next.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Learn the three biggest lessons Manny says every service member needs before transitioning into civilian life.

• Recognize why accepting the first job offer can cost you purpose, fulfillment, and long-term career growth.

• Understand how an unexpected cancer diagnosis reshaped Manny's priorities and reinforced the importance of taking care of yourself before chasing the next opportunity.

• Discover why organizations lose great employees—and what authentic leadership looks like when people become the mission.

About Manny Piñeiro

Manny Piñeiro served 32 years in the United States Air Force, culminating as the Air Force's First Sergeant Special Duty Manager, where he helped shape leadership policy, training, and standards affecting more than 600,000 Airmen and their families worldwide.

Today he is the founder of Making Time Count, an executive coaching and leadership development company helping leaders, organizations, and veterans maximize their impact through purposeful leadership. As a member of the USO Board of Directors, he continues serving the military community while delivering keynote presentations on leadership, resilience, accountability, and human performance across the globe.

🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts.

EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 — Introduction

00:15 — Manny's Military Journey

03:15 — The Three Biggest Lessons About Military Transition

07:32 — Launching Making Time Count

12:03 — Helping Leaders Rediscover Purpose

14:54 — The Reality of Entrepreneurship

19:05 — Building Better Organizations

25:45 — Advice Every Veteran Should Hear

30:07 — Closing & Resources

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Episode Description

Thinking about leaving your job to start a business? The biggest obstacle isn't money—it's deciding to bet on yourself.

Building a successful business isn't about having every answer before you start—it's about developing the confidence to take the first step. In this episode of VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation Startup, Air Force veteran and AI strategist Heather McLean shares how military leadership prepared her for entrepreneurship, why corporate success wasn't enough, and what finally convinced her to leave an executive career to build her own company.

Heather also pulls back the curtain on today's Artificial Intelligence revolution, explaining why AI isn't replacing leadership—it's making strong leadership more important than ever. Whether you're transitioning from military service, considering entrepreneurship, or trying to understand where AI is headed, this conversation delivers practical insights grounded in real experience.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Recognize the leadership advantages veterans bring into Corporate America—and why most companies struggle to develop those same skills.

• Build a practical roadmap for leaving a secure career and launching your own business with confidence.

• Understand why successful AI adoption depends more on people, trust, and organizational culture than on technology itself.

• Overcome the fear of taking your first entrepreneurial leap by learning why planning matters—but action matters even more.

About Heather McLean

Heather McLean is a retired United States Air Force veteran who spent over two decades serving in logistics, information technology, and leadership roles before transitioning into Corporate America. She later spent eleven years leading enterprise technology organizations supporting Fortune 500 companies before founding McLean Forrester, a woman-owned and veteran-owned technology consulting firm specializing in Artificial Intelligence strategy, data modernization, and digital transformation. Her unique combination of military leadership, executive experience, and AI expertise gives organizations practical strategies for implementing emerging technologies that deliver measurable business results.

🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Open Apple Podcasts, search Operation Startup, scroll down, and tap "Write a Review." It takes less than a minute and helps another veteran, military spouse, or entrepreneur discover the encouragement and practical guidance they need.

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Why AI Success Starts With Leadership

00:15 – Introducing Heather McLean

02:32 – Lessons From Military Transition

05:35 – Leaving Corporate America

08:34 – Building a People-First Company

10:18 – The Hardest Part of Entrepreneurship

11:46 – Veteran Resources for Business Owners

13:30 – AI Strategy & Digital Transformation

15:50 – Running a Business as Husband and Wife

16:45 – The Future of Artificial Intelligence

18:59 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

20:05 – Closing & Lifeline Message

🎧 Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network

▶ VET S.O.S. — Flagship Show

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▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong

🔗 Connect with VET S.O.S.

Website: https://vetsospodcast.com

Twitter/X: https://x.com/vetsospodcast

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Leaving the military doesn't mean your leadership ends—it means you have to decide where to apply it next. In this episode of Operation Startup, retired Marine Corps veteran Jim Fuhs shares how he walked away from the security of government contracting, embraced entrepreneurship, and built a business around purpose, freedom, and continuous learning. Rather than chasing the next paycheck, Jim explains why controlling your time, investing wisely, and staying passionate about your work became the foundation of his success.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Learn why changing careers multiple times after military service is often part of finding your true calling.
• Understand why entrepreneurship gave Jim something he never had before—complete ownership of his time and priorities.
• Avoid one of the biggest financial mistakes new entrepreneurs make when purchasing equipment and growing a business.
• Apply military planning principles like the five-paragraph order and SMEAC to make smarter business decisions.
• Discover why embracing your military identity—not hiding it—became one of Jim's greatest professional advantages.

About Jim Fuhs

Jim Fuhs is a retired United States Marine Corps veteran with more than twenty years of military leadership experience. He is the President and COO of Fusion Marketing, where he helps organizations grow through digital marketing strategy, live streaming, and content creation. Jim is also the award-winning co-host of Dealcasters Live, educating creators and businesses on marketing, technology, and digital media.

🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. It only takes 30 seconds and helps another veteran discover the resources and conversations they need during transition.

⏱️ EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction

01:31 Three Lessons Every Veteran Learns During Transition

03:43 Why Jim Chose Entrepreneurship Over Government Contracting

06:16 The Freedom That Comes with Owning Your Time

07:49 Building a Business Without Unnecessary Debt

10:10 Investing in Equipment That Actually Grows Your Business

12:28 Veteran Resources and Entrepreneurship Programs

15:14 Bringing Marine Corps Leadership into Digital Marketing

16:42 Why Your Military Identity Is Still Your Greatest Asset

19:44 Connecting Through LinkedIn, Substack & Dealcasters

21:28 Final Advice for Future Veteran Entrepreneurs

22:30 Closing & Resources

🎧 Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network

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🔗 Connect with VET S.O.S.

Website:
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Twitter/X:
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LinkedIn:
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YouTube:
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Facebook:
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The biggest obstacle to entrepreneurship isn't money—it's believing you're capable of taking the leap.

EPISODE PREMISE

What happens when a lifetime of military leadership meets the uncertainty of entrepreneurship? Retired Navy Master Chief John Verrico shares how he navigated the fear of leaving a secure government career, why servant leadership translates directly into business success, and how helping others shine has become the foundation of his company, Share Your Fire LLC.

If you're a veteran preparing for transition, an entrepreneur struggling to grow, or a leader looking to build stronger teams, this conversation delivers practical lessons you can put to work immediately.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Learn why believing in yourself is the first—and most important—step toward becoming an entrepreneur.

• Understand why military leaders often outperform civilian managers, and the leadership training many organizations are missing.

• Discover how recognizing the people doing the work creates stronger teams, healthier workplace cultures, and better business results.

• Hear the memorable story of a young Naval Academy officer asking a second-class petty officer to teach him leadership—a moment that shaped John's entire career.

• See why relationship-building and serving others have been more valuable than traditional sales tactics in growing a successful business.

About John Verrico

John Verrico is a retired U.S. Navy Master Chief, internationally recognized leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, and founder of Share Your Fire LLC. Following more than four decades of combined military and government service, he now helps organizations improve leadership, communication, employee engagement, and workplace culture through coaching, training, and speaking.

He is also the former President of the National Association of Government Communicators and co-author of nine international bestselling books focused on leadership, connection, and personal growth.

🎙️ If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. It only takes a few seconds, and your review helps another veteran, service member, or military spouse discover the resources and encouragement they need to begin their next mission.

⏱️ EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 – Introduction

01:55 – Transitioning from Military Service to Civilian Life

04:06 – Leaving Government for Entrepreneurship

05:00 – The Leadership Lesson That Changed Everything

07:23 – Why Serving Others Is the Greatest Reward

11:04 – The Hardest Part of Running a Business

13:11 – Veteran Networking and Building Business Connections

15:04 – Helping Leaders Build Better Workplace Cultures

20:23 – Believe in Yourself and Take the Leap

21:40 – Closing Thoughts

🎧 Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network

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Most entrepreneurs don't fail because of bad ideas—they fail because they build busy work instead of business systems.

EPISODE PREMISE

Success after military service isn't about working harder—it's about building smarter. Retired U.S. Army officer Antwon Person shares how extending his retirement, maximizing SkillBridge, and embracing entrepreneurship taught him that scalable businesses are built on structure, delegation, and execution—not endless hustle.

Whether you're preparing to leave the military or trying to grow an existing business, this episode delivers practical lessons on avoiding the mistakes that keep entrepreneurs stuck.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Learn why giving yourself enough transition time can completely change your post-military success.

• Understand why being busy inside your business is often the biggest obstacle to actually growing it.

• Identify when it's time to stop wearing every hat and begin hiring experts who accelerate your growth.

• Discover how to evaluate networking groups and mentorship programs before investing your time and money.

• Build a business framework that allows you to scale instead of constantly reacting to daily tasks.

About Antwon Person

Antwon Person is a retired U.S. Army officer with more than 20 years of leadership experience managing complex organizations across the Department of Defense. Today, he is the founder of Skillful Brands, where he helps entrepreneurs simplify business operations, create scalable systems, and build sustainable companies through coaching, consulting, and technology solutions. His mission is helping business owners replace chaos with clarity and long-term growth.

🎙️If this episode helped you, please follow Operation Startup and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Open the Podcasts app, search Operation Startup, scroll to the bottom, and tap Write a Review. It only takes about 30 seconds and helps another veteran discover the resources they need for their next mission.

⏱️ EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 – Introduction

01:42 – Extending Retirement to Maximize SkillBridge

04:01 – Why Entrepreneurship Won Over Government Contracting

06:29 – Why Busy Doesn't Mean Productive

07:40 – Stop Wearing Every Hat

10:21 – The Fast-Changing World of Business

11:48 – Finding the Right Mentors and Networking Groups

13:41 – How Skillful Brands Helps Entrepreneurs Scale

15:56 – Advice Every Veteran Entrepreneur Needs to Hear

18:05 – Closing & Resources

🎧 Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network

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▶ VET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong

🔗 Connect with Antwon Person

Website: https://antwonperson.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antwonperson

Website: https://vetsospodcast.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GUdf1TJvCgyy52Xi2TdLZ

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Most entrepreneurs wait for the right moment. Dr. Andrena Phillips started her business when she was unemployed, facing eviction, and watching everything fall apart.

Episode Premise

What do you do when the lights are off, your vehicle has been repossessed, and an eviction notice is staring you in the face?

For Dr. Andrena Phillips, the answer wasn't giving up—it was betting on herself.

In this episode of Operation Startup, Maurice Murphy sits down with Dr. Andrena Phillips, Founder and CEO of KeepMovinWithAndrena LLC and Transform U Coaching Institute. Dr. Phillips shares how one of the darkest seasons of her life became the foundation for a thriving business, why entrepreneurs must invest in themselves before anyone else will, and how purpose can carry you through challenges that would cause most people to quit.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship isn't about perfect timing. It's about showing up, staying committed, and continuing to build even when circumstances tell you not to.

In This Episode, You'll Discover

• How to turn adversity into entrepreneurial opportunity

• Why betting on yourself is often the first investment every entrepreneur must make

• The business-building lessons available through IVMF, SBA, and local networking communities

• How to handle people who dismiss your vision as a "little business"

• Why understanding your "why" may be the difference between quitting and succeeding

About Dr. Andrena Phillips

Dr. Andrena Phillips is the Founder and CEO of KeepMovinWithAndrena LLC and Transform U Coaching Institute. A veteran spouse, transformational speaker, certified Master Life Strategist, award-winning podcaster, published author, coach educator, retired licensed practical nurse, and Doctor of Organizational Leadership, she empowers individuals and organizations through leadership development, transformational coaching, and personal growth.

Her journey from financial hardship and personal loss to successful entrepreneur offers valuable lessons for veteran entrepreneurs, military spouses, and anyone pursuing a purpose-driven business.

If this episode helped you, please follow the show and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts - open the app, search Operation Startup, scroll down, and tap "Write a Review." It takes 30 seconds and puts this show in front of a veteran who needs it right now.

More Shows From The VET S.O.S. Network

Website:
https://vetsospodcast.com

Operation Startup Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6GUdf1TJvCgyy52Xi2TdLZ

VET S.O.S. Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM

Learning Lifeline:
https://open.spotify.com/show/65zCMDoUhGdlA6EDgFDY1l

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast

Substack:
https://substack.com/@vetsos

Connect With VET S.O.S.

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast

Linktree:
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Support The Mission

VET S.O.S. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans and military families through education, connection, and innovative tools so that no one transitions alone.

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

#OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryEntrepreneur #VeteranSmallBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusinessSuccess #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessCoaching #WomenEntrepreneurs #VeteranSpouse #StartupSuccess #BetOnYourself #VETSOS #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP

Most veterans don't fail because they're unqualified—they fail because they wait too long to start.

EPISODE PREMISE

Mr. Whiskey didn't set out to become an entrepreneur. A Navy career, a difficult civilian work environment, and a growing desire to make a greater impact eventually pushed him toward building something of his own. In this conversation, he explains why purpose matters more than timing and why veterans often have everything they need to start long before they think they're ready.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Identify the transition mistakes that cause many veterans to bounce between jobs after leaving the military

• Avoid the costly entrepreneurship errors that come from rushing in without proper research

• Understand why your military service should be part of your identity—not your entire identity

• Learn why impact, service, and authentic connection matter more than chasing money first

About Mr. Whiskey

Mr. Whiskey is a United States Navy veteran and former Nuclear Operator who founded Couple O' Nukes, a self-improvement platform focused on mental health, addiction recovery, military life, and personal growth. Through podcasting, speaking, coaching, and writing, he helps individuals create meaningful change while building communities centered on service and impact.

Featured Quote

"The best time to plant an oak tree was fifty years ago. The second best time is today."

If this episode helped you, please follow the show and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — open the app, search Operation Startup, scroll down, and tap "Write a Review." It takes 30 seconds and puts this show in front of a veteran who needs it right now.

EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 - Introduction
01:32 - Why Veterans Struggle After Transition
03:02 - Identity Beyond Military Service
06:35 - Building a Mission-Driven Business
16:28 - The Hardest Part of Entrepreneurship
28:31 - Advice for Future Veteran Entrepreneurs
31:45 - Closing & Resources

Explore the Full VET S.O.S. Network:

▶ VET S.O.S.
▶ Operation Startup
▶ Learning Lifeline
▶ The Scoop
▶ Testimony Strong

Connect with VET S.O.S.

Website: vetsospodcast.com
X: @vetsospodcast
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
Facebook: facebook.com/vetsospodcast
Instagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcast
TikTok: tiktok.com/@vetsospodcast

#VETSOS
#VeteranPodcast
#OperationStartup
#MilitaryTransition
#VeteranEntrepreneur #GrabTheLifeline #HeroesMediaGRP

Description:

Natalie Schibell joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into military transition strategy and veteran career development. A former Navy Lieutenant Commander turned founder, she shares how pivoting multiple times shaped her path into entrepreneurship and national veteran advocacy.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why transition planning must start early• How the Reserve Component can provide financial and career security• The reality of pivoting in corporate America• Why veterans should gain experience before launching a business• How to build a sustainable career roadmap

Whether you're navigating military transition, building a business, or exploring your next career move, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today.

About the Guest:

Natalie Schibell is a former U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander and founder of Mission to Commission and Commission to Transition. She specializes in military career strategy, resume development, leadership growth, and helping veterans successfully navigate career pivots and entrepreneurship.

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
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#NavyOfficer
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#VeteranResources
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#GrabTheLifeline

Description:

Chris McKeithen joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into military transition, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity innovation. In this episode, we explore how Chris went from an unexpected separation from the Army to building AEGIS Cyber Defense—a platform helping businesses identify vulnerabilities before cyber attackers strike.

In this episode, we explore:• Lessons from transitioning without a roadmap• How to identify gaps in an industry and build a business around them• Overcoming fear, rejection, and imposter syndrome as an entrepreneur

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:

Chris McKeithen is a U.S. Army combat veteran and CEO of AEGIS Cyber Defense. After leaving the military in 2013, he built a successful corporate career before launching his own cybersecurity company focused on protecting small and mid-sized businesses. He is also a strong advocate for helping veterans enter the cybersecurity field.

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.

Explore More Episodes:

VET S.O.S.VET S.O.S. Presents: Operation StartupVET S.O.S. Presents: Learning LifelineVET S.O.S. Presents: The ScoopVET S.O.S. Presents: Testimony Strong

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 #OperationStartup #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryTransition #CyberSecurity #EntrepreneurLife #VeteranOwned #StartupStory #CyberAwareness #GrabTheLifeline