In this episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant talk with Katie Helbling, content creator at ClearanceJobs and host of the Security Clearance Careers podcast. Katie brings her trademark humor and honesty as she discusses how veterans can successfully navigate the security clearance job search after leaving the military.

Katie offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ClearanceJobs platform and explains how it differs from other job boards like USAJobs and LinkedIn. Learn why creating your profile early—before your out date—is crucial, how to maintain your clearance status under the new two-year policy, and what recruiters are really looking for when hiring cleared professionals.

Topics include:

• Building a strategic job search timeline

• Translating military skills for civilian hiring managers

• Busting myths about “automatic” job placement for senior leaders

• The power of niche platforms in federal and defense employment

• Katie’s sassiest memes and why humor is a powerful transition tool

We also explore ClearanceJobs' ecosystem: job groups, newsletters, virtual bootcamps, and new initiatives like FedWork.net and ClearanceJobsBlog.com.

Whether you're six months out or just getting started, this episode will give you real tools and advice to succeed in your post-military career journey.

🌐 More at: www.vetsospodcast.com
🔎 Check out: www.clearancejobs.com
📧 Contact Katie: [email protected]
🎙️ Subscribe to VET S.O.S. on all platforms @vetsospodcast

#SecurityClearanceJobs #VeteranCareerAdvice #MilitaryTransition #ClearanceJobs #DefenseContracting #VeteranSupport #FedCareers #MilitaryToCivilian #VETSOS #CareerStrategy

Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Erick Saks joins VET S.O.S. to discuss Operation Lifeline, a nonprofit empowering veterans through housing, SkillBridge internships, and hands-on job training. Discover how Veteran Workforce Development is at the heart of this growing grassroots movement reshaping what veteran support can be.

🎙 Hosted by Shawn Welsh & Keith Cassant
🌐 Learn more at opLifeline.org

#VeteranWorkforceDevelopment #SkillBridge #VeteranSupport #NonprofitLeadership #VetCareers #ConstructionTraining #PostMilitaryJobs #OperationLifeline #CommunityService #TransitionPrograms #vetsos

In this inspiring episode of the Military Transition Resources Show, we sit down with Brian Cain, Director of Development at Guitars for Vets, a nonprofit putting guitars—and hope—into the hands of America’s veterans.

Brian opens up about his personal battle with PTSD and brain injury following service in the Marine Corps and law enforcement. He shares how music, Boulder Crest’s Warrior PATHH, and the Guitars for Vets program helped him rediscover purpose—and how he’s now helping others do the same.

🎸 Topics include:

• The therapeutic power of music

• Why community is essential to veteran healing

• The G4V 10-week model and graduation gift

• Their expansion plans including songwriting retreats

• How to join or support Guitars for Vets

Learn more or donate: guitarsforvets.org
Connect with Brian: [email protected]

🎧 Subscribe now so you don’t miss any episodes of VET S.O.S.!

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM

#GuitarsForVets #MilitaryTransition #VETSOS #MusicTherapy #VeteranSupport #PTSDRecovery #CreativeHealing #VeteranStories #JamSessionHealing #NonprofitVeterans

This week on the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we speak with Shannon Huffman Polson—veteran Apache pilot, leadership expert, and founder of The Grit Institute. Shannon opens up about her military service, her unexpected pivot into corporate life, and the mindset and values that helped her lead with purpose through it all.

Shannon introduces us to her powerful Grit Triad model—Commit, Learn, Launch—and shares how veterans can embrace transition by reconnecting with their story, building new skills, and stepping forward with audacity and authenticity.

Whether you’re in the middle of a career shift, reflecting on your next steps, or mentoring someone who is, this episode delivers clarity and strength to help you lead the way forward.

🎯 SPECIAL OFFER: Use code VETSOS at thegritinstitute.com/courses for 50% off Shannon’s training programs.

💬 Connect with Shannon Huffman Polson:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shannonhpolson
Instagram: @shannonhpolson

#VeteranResilience #GritFactor #PostMilitaryLife #LeadershipDevelopment #FemaleVeterans #VeteranSupport #FindYourPurpose #MindsetMatters #PurposeDrivenLife #VeteranGrowth #VETSOS

In this dynamic episode of the VET S.O.S., we're joined by returning guest Peter Cline, founder of Boots to Books and co-founder of the new MilMentor platform.

Peter shares:

• His authentic and humbling military transition story.

• How MilMentor is filling the void left by Veterati.

• The importance of fast feedback and one-on-one calls for career clarity.

• His advice for young veterans on taking smart risks.

• How mentorship, networking, and strategic career moves can lead to thriving post-military success.

He also dives into upcoming features and corporate partnerships that will ensure MilMentor stays free and accessible to all veterans, service members, and military spouses.

Whether you're transitioning, hiring, or mentoring—this is a must-listen conversation.

🎧 Listen now and subscribe to catch all new episodes!

🌐 VET S.O.S. Website: vetsospodcast.com
📲 MilMentor: milmentor.com
📌 Boots to Books: bootstobooks.org

#VeteranTransition #MilMentor #BootstoBooks #PeterCline #MilitaryMentorship #VeteranSupport #MilitaryCommunity #MilitaryToCivilian #NonprofitLeadership #CareerTransition #VETSOS

Lacey Craig of T-Mobile joins VET S.O.S. to spotlight how the company is leading the way in veteran hiring, retention, and military family support. As Senior Program Manager for Military and Partnership Recruiting, Lacey discusses the importance of long-term success for veterans and military spouses in the civilian workforce.

You’ll hear about T-Mobile’s industry-leading initiatives including:

• PCS Paid Leave and Remote Work Flexibility

• SkillBridge and Military Fellowship Programs

• Internships for Veterans and Military Spouses

• Internal Mentorship Networks (VAST)

• Collaborative partnerships with Hiring Our Heroes, Blue Star Families, and more

Lacey’s personal story as a military daughter, combined with her professional experience, brings a unique and heartfelt perspective to corporate military engagement.

🎧 Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, a spouse seeking employment, or a veteran advocate — this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable information.

🔗 Explore more at vetsospodcast.com
📱 Follow: @vetsospodcast

#MilitaryCareerSupport #VeteranJobs #MilitarySpouseCareers #TMobileMilitary #SkillBridgeProgram #HiringVeterans #CorporateCulture #MilitaryInternships #VETSOS #CareerTransition

Join us for a powerful and inspiring conversation with Tony Grinston, the 16th Sergeant Major of the Army and current CEO of Army Emergency Relief (AER). In this VET S.O.S. episode, Tony talks about his transition from military leadership to nonprofit CEO, shares valuable advice for separating service members, and details the many ways AER supports soldiers and families.

We dive deep into:

• Tony’s personal transition story (and name confusion!)

• Leadership lessons from 36 years in uniform

• Financial assistance programs for soldiers and spouses

• AER’s Career Skills Program grants

• Why hiring veterans is a smart business move

Whether you’re active duty, a veteran, a family member, or someone looking to support the military community—this episode is packed with wisdom, empathy, and resources to help you or someone you care about.

💡 Visit: www.armyemergencyrelief.org
📧 Contact Tony directly: [email protected]
🎙 Hosted by Shawn Welsh with guest co-host Dr. Hira

#VeteranPodcast #ArmyEmergencyRelief #MilitaryLeadership #CareerTransition #TonyGrinston #VeteranNonprofits #SkillBridgeSupport #VETSOS #TransitionSupport #VeteranEducation

Michael Haltman, Chairman of the Heroes to Heroes Foundation, joins VET S.O.S. to share how their powerful peer-driven and faith-based program helps combat veterans overcome moral injury and suicidal ideation. From intensive one-year coaching to deeply spiritual journeys to Israel, the Heroes to Heroes Foundation delivers a proven path to healing and community reintegration. Learn about their impact, how to apply, and why this model stands out among veteran support efforts.

This episode explores:

• The concept of moral injury and why it's often misunderstood

• The importance of peer support and faith in healing

• Real stories from veterans who found transformation in Israel

• The vital role of family referrals and community connection

Visit heroestoheroes.org to learn more or get involved.

🎙 Follow VET S.O.S. for more episodes that spotlight transformational resources for veterans, military families, and transitioning service members.

#Veterans #MoralInjury #HeroesToHeroes #MilitaryHealing #FaithAndRecovery #IsraelTrip #PeerSupport #SuicidePrevention #VETSOS #VeteranPrograms

Welcome to the VET S.O.S. Podcast! In this episode, Shawn and Dr. Hira talk with Matthew Louis, acclaimed author of Mission Transition and Hiring Veterans, and a leading voice in the military transition space.

Matt discusses his own journey from the Army to the corporate world, how he’s helping bridge the civil-military divide, and why employment is the cornerstone of successful transition. You'll hear insights on:

• Translating military skills to civilian careers

• Building veteran-inclusive hiring programs

• Supporting military spouses and senior leaders in transition

• Leveraging free tools like PurePost and matthewjlouis.com for long-term success

Whether you’re a service member, veteran, employer, or advocate, this episode is packed with tactical takeaways and inspiration to help you thrive after service.

🔗 For resources, visit: matthewjlouis.com
🎙 Subscribe to VET S.O.S. and don’t miss an episode!

#VeteranPodcast #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCareers #MissionTransition #HiringHeroes #CareerSupport #TransitionResources #MilitarySpouses #LeadershipAfterService #VETSOS

Join the VET S.O.S. Podcast for a high-impact conversation with Jai Salters, Navy veteran and founder of Act Now Education, MilMentor, and Service to Success. With over 77,000 served, Jai and his team are redefining what veteran and spouse support looks like—offering free certifications, job prep programs, tailored mentorship, and real hiring opportunities.

Cohosted by Dr. Hira, this episode explores:

• Jai’s ongoing transition journey

• How Act Now helps veterans reskill before they leap

• Why mentorship through MilMentor fills a critical gap

• How Service to Success connects talent directly to employers

If you're navigating your transition or supporting someone who is, this is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen & share this lifeline: www.vetsospodcast.com
🗓️ Join the Weekly Rundown at www.actnoweducation.com
Follow Jai: www.milmentor.com | www.service2success.org

Subscribe and stay connected:
YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
#MilitaryTransitionSupport #ActNowEducation #MilMentor #JaiSalters #VeteranResources #TransitionReadiness #VeteranEmployment #MilitaryMentorship #VETSOS #ServiceToSuccess