In this heartfelt and insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we welcome Christina Etchberger, founder and CEO of It's a Military Life, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military families, spouses, and veterans. Christina’s inspiring journey began as a military spouse and educator, and her determination to make a difference has evolved into a thriving 501(c)(3) organization that empowers the military community through innovative programs. Christina takes us through the origins of It's a Military Life, which started as a personal blog during her husband's deployment and grew into a full-fledged nonprofit. She shares how the organization addresses the unique challenges faced by military families, emphasizing the importance of connection, empowerment, and community. We explore the three cornerstone programs of the organization: - Veteran Pen Pal Project: Reviving the art of letter writing to connect veterans in hospice care, veteran homes, and deployed service members with supportive communities through thoughtful correspondence. - Military Child Life: Providing a platform for military spouse and veteran authors, distributing books that reflect the military family experience, and creating opportunities for children to connect and learn through storytelling. - Military Connection: Offering workshops, cohorts, and mentorship programs to help military spouses and transitioning veterans build careers, develop skills, and thrive in the civilian workforce. Christina also highlights the impact of their efforts, from delivering over 100,000 cards to veterans during the holidays to helping military-focused authors bring their stories to a broader audience. She emphasizes the organization's commitment to collaboration, whether through volunteer opportunities, ambassador roles, or partnerships with other organizations. In this episode, Christina shares actionable ways to get involved, whether as a volunteer, donor, or sponsor. Her passion for empowering others shines as she reflects on her journey, the dedication of her volunteers, and the transformative power of community. Tune in to this episode for a powerful conversation about resilience, service, and the importance of creating meaningful connections in the military community. Listen now on YouTube, iHeartRadio, Odyssey, and the TuneIn app. Let’s make a difference together! https://www.itsamilitarylife.org/ #vetsos #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranSupport #MilitarySpouse #NonprofitLeadership #Empowerment

🎙️ VET S.O.S. Podcast - Season 5 Premiere! 🎙️ Welcome to the highly anticipated first episode of Season 5 of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! We're thrilled to kick off the new year with a special guest who embodies the spirit of service and innovation—Susan L. Combs, founder of Pancakes for Roger Inc. Susan shares the deeply personal and inspiring story of how her father, the late Major General Roger E. Combs, and his simple request for pancakes during hospice care became the catalyst for a global movement. Through Pancakes for Roger Inc., Susan has channeled her grief into a force for good, creating pathways to honor veterans and their families. Episode Highlights: - The Pancakes for Roger Story: Learn how a moment of love and care sparked a nonprofit that has reached all 50 states and 29 countries across all seven continents. - A Lifelong Commitment to Service: Raised in a military household, Susan’s upbringing instilled a service ethos that drives her philanthropic endeavors today. - Empowering Veterans: Discover how Pancakes for Roger supports veterans through creative initiatives, such as: - Veteran Legal Assistance: Partnering with the University of Missouri’s School of Law Veterans Clinic to help veterans navigate VA claims and discharge upgrades. - Pancake Month: An annual February tradition inviting people worldwide to share pancake photos, raising awareness and funds for veteran support programs. - Future Initiatives: Susan’s plans for programs like “Soldier Shark Tank” to foster veteran entrepreneurship and tiny home communities for veteran recovery. Fun and Heartwarming Details: - From creative pancake designs to incredible locations (like Antarctica!), hear how Pancake Month has become a beloved tradition. - Stories of meaningful connections, including military bases, families, and organizations coming together to support the cause. Be Part of the Movement: February is Pancake Month! Whether you’re enjoying classic buttermilk pancakes, waffles (aka “pancakes with abs”), or international variations like crepes and scallion pancakes, your participation makes a difference. Share your photos on social media with the hashtag #PancakesForRoger and tag the organization to support veterans worldwide. 🔗 Learn more and join the movement: pancakesforroger.org 📸 Don’t forget: Posts must be public to be counted toward donations! This is an episode packed with inspiration, laughter, and actionable ways to give back. Tune in to hear Susan’s incredible journey, and join us in making an impact—one pancake at a time. 🌟 #vetsos #vetsospodcast #PancakesForRoger #VeteranSupport #MilitaryFamilies #ServiceAndSacrifice

We sit down with Robert Pangaro, veteran advocate helping veterans with a givers heart. Robert describes his transition from the military and how it was less than ideal. He talks about the work he has and still does to assist veterans in so many different areas of their lives. He also discusses the work he does with Guidehouse to help veterans find meaningful work with an outstanding organization.

Robert Pangaro is a retired Army Veteran with a distinguished service record and extensive experience in supporting transitioning military members. He holds a PhD in Public Policy and Administration, with a focus on Special Education Reform and Veteran Healthcare Reform. After his military career, Robert moved into a career in education working his way up from elementary to the collegiate level, working in areas such as special needs, and behavior intervention all while tirelessly working to support homeless veterans. Rob has also served as a chaplain for a few transitioning veteran organizations. He is a husband to an amazing wife and a father to 7 children.

#vetsos #vetsospodcast #military #militarylife #transitioningmilitary #militarytransition #militaryspouses #militaryspouse #militaryfamily #militaryfamilies #militarycommunity #militarysupport #militaryveterans #vets #veterans #veteran #veterantransition #transitioningveterans #veteranservices #honorveterans #veteranswife #supportourveterans #veteransupport #veteransusa #veteranshelpingveterans #careerchange #transitioningservicemembers #linkedin #sof #coastguard #navy #spaceforce #marines #army #nationalguard #airforce #usmc #usmcr #us #usa #education #podcast #entertainment

In this deeply moving episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we welcome Mary Millsaps and Zeke Vanderpool, the dynamic duo behind Operation Angel Wing (OPAW). Their organization has been a lifeline for veterans, first responders, and their families, offering innovative trauma-informed care and post-traumatic growth strategies that have changed countless lives. Mary, a survivor of prolonged cycles of abuse, and Zeke, a 23-year Army Special Operations veteran, share their personal stories of resilience and purpose. Their combined expertise and life experiences form the foundation of OPAW, which provides tailored support to those navigating the emotional and mental scars of service. Discover the groundbreaking six-week protocol they’ve developed, which addresses the root causes of trauma and empowers individuals to move beyond it. The episode also explores the systemic challenges in traditional mental health systems, the importance of addressing pre-service trauma, and the power of community and faith in the healing process. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: - The Birth of Operation Angel Wing: How Mary and Zeke’s paths merged to create a mission-driven organization. - Breaking Down Pre-Service Trauma: Understanding how unresolved trauma before service impacts long-term mental health. - The Six-Week Protocol: A revolutionary approach that achieves results traditional systems struggle to match. - Challenges with the Mental Health Industry: Why current frameworks fail many and how OPAW fills the gaps. - Faith, Resilience, and Community: The vital role of faith-based support in healing trauma. 📢 Resources Mentioned: 📧 Email: OpalationAngelWing@gmail.com 🌐 Website: https://www.OperationAngelWing.org 💼 LinkedIn: Operation Angel Wing 🎧 Why Watch This Episode? - Gain insights into trauma and its lasting effects from experts with firsthand experience. - Learn about innovative approaches to mental health and post-traumatic growth. - Find out how you can support or seek help from Operation Angel Wing. 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from VET S.O.S. Podcast! Follow Us: 💻 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Podcast Platforms: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM "Don't drown in the sea of transition. Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline!" #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #FirstResponders #TraumaRecovery #OperationAngelWing

🎙️ VET S.O.S. Podcast: Special Guest Wayne Soares 🎙️
In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome the multi-talented Wayne Soares—actor, entertainer, syndicated columnist, and tireless advocate for veterans. With a career spanning broadcasting, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling, Wayne is on a mission to uplift and honor the brave men and women who serve our country.
Wayne’s work ranges from writing the widely acclaimed Veteran Spotlight column, where he’s conducted over 780 interviews with veterans, to hosting the hit cooking show The Mess Hall, which brings veterans into the kitchen to share their favorite recipes and stories. He’s also the creator and co-producer of Silent Dignity, a moving documentary that sheds light on the untold experiences of Vietnam veterans, giving them a voice after decades of silence.
📌 What to expect in this episode:
- Wayne’s unique journey into the veteran advocacy space despite not being a veteran himself
Heartwarming stories from his Veteran Spotlight series, including incredible tales from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam heroes
- The origins of The Mess Hall cooking show and the delicious dishes shared by veterans—including Maryland crab cakes and Mexican sweet corn 🌽
- Behind-the-scenes stories of Silent Dignity and the powerful healing it has brought to Vietnam veterans
- Hilarious moments from Wayne’s comedy career, including unforgettable encounters with generals and troops
- Plus, Wayne delivers his signature Joke of the Day that will leave you in stitches! 😂
💡 Who should tune in?
Whether you’re a veteran, a military family member, or simply someone who admires the courage and resilience of our service members, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and stories that will stay with you long after you listen.
🔗 How to connect with Wayne:
Email: wayneswords1@gmail.com
Websites: The Mess Hall - https://www.youtube.com/@themesshall9190
Veteran Spotlight Articles - https://www.capenews.net/
Silent Dignity Documentary - https://www.silentdignity.us/
📣 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the VET S.O.S. Podcast on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms for more incredible stories and resources to help veterans thrive.
🛟 Remember: Don’t drown in a sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline.
#WayneSoares #SilentDignity #TheMessHall #VeteranStories #MilitaryCookingShow #vetsos #vetsospodcast #military #militarylife #transitioningmilitary #militarytransition #militaryspouses #militaryspouse #militaryfamily #militaryfamilies #militarycommunity #militarysupport #militaryveterans #vets #veterans #veteran #veterantransition #transitioningveterans #veteranservices #honorveterans #veteranswife #supportourveterans #veteransupport #veteransusa #veteranshelpingveterans #careerchange #transitioningservicemembers #linkedin #sof #coastguard #navy #spaceforce #marines #army #nationalguard #airforce #usmc #usmcr #us #usa #education #podcast #entertainment

Today we sit down with Joseph Zolper from the Road Home Program. Joseph discusses his military transition and how he overestimated how easy it would be. After landing a job, he found himself trying to fill a void that could only be filled through helping veterans. He eventually found the Road Home Program and all the stars aligned. Listen in as he talks about their program and the amazing impact and results they are having helping those in our veteran community.

Joseph Zolper grew up in suburban Chicago, earned a BS from Illinois State University, and was commissioned from Army ROTC as an Infantry Officer in 2015. He served with 4ID, out of Fort Carson, CO, and deployed to Afghanistan in 2018-19, earning a Bronze Star and Combat Infantryman Badge. Following his military service, Joseph worked as an Operations Manager at Amazon, leading a Military Employee Resource Group. This passion for supporting the military community brought him back to Chicago to the Road Home Program, where he is the Manager of Veteran Outreach & Networking. At Road Home, he continues his service to the military community by bringing needed mental healthcare to veterans, service members, and their families.

#vetsos #vetsospodcast #military #militarylife #transitioningmilitary #militarytransition #militaryspouses #militaryspouse #militaryfamily #militaryfamilies #militarycommunity #militarysupport #militaryveterans #vets #veterans #veteran #veterantransition #transitioningveterans #veteranservices #honorveterans #veteranswife #supportourveterans #veteransupport #veteransusa #veteranshelpingveterans #careerchange #transitioningservicemembers #linkedin #sof #coastguard #navy #spaceforce #marines #army #nationalguard #airforce #usmc #usmcr #us #usa #education #podcast #entertainment

🎙️ Welcome to the VET S.O.S. Podcast! Today, we’re diving into an inspiring conversation with Bob Thomas, President and COO of Operation Homefront. Join us as we explore how this incredible organization is transforming the lives of veterans and their families through innovative programs and unwavering support.
After a distinguished 31-year career in the Air Force, Bob has dedicated his post-service life to building strong, stable, and secure military families. From offering critical financial assistance to families in need to providing transitional housing programs that set veterans up for homeownership success, Operation Homefront ensures that military families thrive—not just survive.
💡 What you’ll learn in this episode:
- The challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life.
- How Operation Homefront’s programs like holiday meals, back-to-school supplies, and baby showers offer both emotional and economic relief.
- The game-changing transitional housing program, where families save thousands and are set up to purchase their own homes.
- Inspiring success stories of military families who have found stability and new opportunities through Operation Homefront.
🎯 Why this matters: Veteran homelessness, financial struggles, and transitional challenges are real issues. This episode sheds light on solutions and resources available to veterans and their families, and how you can contribute to making a difference.
📢 It’s Giving Tuesday, and there’s no better time to support Operation Homefront’s mission. Whether you can donate, volunteer, or simply share their story, every action counts.
👉 Visit Operation Homefront: https://www.operationhomefront.org
💌 Get involved: Donate, volunteer, or learn more about how you can make an impact.
Don’t miss this episode packed with insights, stories, and actionable ways to support those who have served. Like, subscribe, and share to help us spread the word!

#OperationHomefront #GivingTuesday #vetsos #vetsospodcast #OperationHomefront #VeteranSupport #MilitaryFamilies

In this emotional and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Keith and Shawn welcome Deme Gonzalez, the passionate CEO of the Adopt-A-Vet Dental Program. Deme dives into the incredible work his organization is doing to provide free dental care for low-income veterans, addressing an often-overlooked area of healthcare that profoundly affects quality of life. The conversation covers the origin story of the program, which began 15 years ago with a simple desire to help a few veterans and has since grown into a statewide initiative in Nevada. With over $10 million worth of free dental services provided and a network of more than 160 volunteer dentists, this program is changing lives one smile at a time. Deme also shares the personal experiences that drive his unwavering commitment, including the loss of his brother in Afghanistan and the challenges he faced transitioning out of the military himself. From raising awareness about the critical gap in veterans' dental care to the ambitious vision of bringing Adopt-A-Vet to every state, Deme's dedication is truly inspiring. The episode explores: ✅ The barriers veterans face in accessing dental care and how Adopt-A-Vet is bridging the gap. ✅ The importance of partnerships with dentists, legislators, and community members. ✅ The upcoming state-of-the-art dental clinic exclusively for veterans, set to open in January 2025. ✅ Plans to expand the program nationwide with training and support for other states. Support the Adopt-A-Vet Dental Program: 🌐 Website: https://adoptavetdental.org 📞 Contact: Las Vegas: 702-268-2836 / Reno: 775-470-8707 Join the Mission: Whether you’re a veteran in need of care, a dentist looking to give back, or someone passionate about making a difference, you can help expand this incredible program. Visit their website to learn how you can get involved or make a donation. Follow VET S.O.S. Podcast: 💻 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast Podcast Platforms: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM Experience the power of community, passion, and purpose in this must-watch episode. As Demi says, "It’s not just about fixing teeth—it’s about restoring dignity, confidence, and smiles to those who served." “Remember, don’t drown in the sea of transition. Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline.” #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteransSupport #DentalCareForVeterans #AdoptAVetDental #HelpingHeroes