🎙️ 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

Today we sit down with Mary Millsaps and Zeke Vanderpool from Operation Angel Wing. We start with Zeke’s troubled transition out of the military and Mary’s unique journey into working with veterans. Their stories shed light on where their passion to help our veteran community stems from. They talk to us about Operation Angel Wing and the wonderful services they offer and the unique approach they take to helping our veteran and first responder communities.

Mary Millsaps is the creator and cofounder of Operation Angel Wing (OPAW). As a teen and young woman, she endured prolonged cycles of extreme abuse. Despite her physical and emotional scars, she completed a successful career in Public Safety Services and Emergency Medicine spanning more than 20 years. Mary earned her Master in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Timeline Therapy. She brings highly effective modalities to our mental health work, many of which she developed and continues to instruct and mentor with the Public Safety, Military and Veteran communities.

Zeke Vanderpool is cofounder of Operation Angel Wing (OPAW). In 2013, he retired after 23 years of service in Army Special Operations. His desire to help fellow service members and their families through the trauma of military combat service led him to partner with Mary Millsaps to form Operation Angel Wing where he serves as a Trauma Specialist and Interventionist, continually improving the lives of our Service Members, Veterans, First Responders and their families. Zeke is an administrator of the Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) protocol, an Associate Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner, a Trauma Specialist, and is a certified Coach in Therapeutic Narrative, Music and Leadership.

https://www.operationangelwing.org/

#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

🎙️ 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

Robert Thomas joins us to discuss his military transition and the work he is doing with Operation Homefront. He discusses how he worked up until the end and didn’t have a plan when he transitioned. After a period of trying to figure things out, Robert found Operation Homefront and the rest was history. He discusses the amazing financial and housing programs they use to help our veteran community find their footing and get their lives moving in the right direction. These amazing programs are making life-changing differences in the lives of our veterans and their families.

Robert D. Thomas joined the Operation Homefront executive team in August 2015 following a nearly 31- year career of distinguished service in the Air Force. He is an experienced combat pilot and has served around the world. Bob holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy and Master’s degrees from the University of Southern California and the National Defense University.  After serving as Operation Homefront’s Chief Operating Officer for more than eight years, Bob was promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer on March 1, 2024.  In this capacity, Bob will continue overseeing the organization’s daily operations.  He will lead programs, services and the multi-functional teams across Operation Homefront that provide relief and recurring family support, throughout the year, to tens of thousands of military families. 

https://operationhomefront.org/

#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 are sitting down with Deme Gonzalez, CEO of Adopt a Vet Dental Program. He starts with his military transition story and how he felt unfulfilled with the work he did after leaving the military and how that void led to him working for this program. He describes the amazing work this program does to help our veteran community, how they are working to help other states stand up a program to help their specific communities, and the state of the art facility they are standing up in Nevada.

Deme Enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served 24 years. He served on the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk and the U.S.S. Essex, and has been stationed all over the world during his service. Upon his retirement, Deme tried a couple different things like starting a trucking company in South Texas and a Safety Company in New Mexico, and working as a general manager for a pool company in Nevada. In 2020 I decided to give back to the community I love and started working as the Executive Director for the Adopt a Vet Dental Program that provides pro bono dental care to low-income Veterans. I now serve as the Chief Executive Officer and in the process of bridging this program nationwide.

https://adoptavetdental.org/

#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

We sit down with Wendi to discuss her transition as a woman leaving the military and how that led her to dedicating her life to helping woman transition successfully. Wendi has a successful coaching business and is the host of the “Beyond the Military” Podcast where she discusses important issues about military transition and issues specific to women.

Wendi is a woman of God, wife, mama of 3, Army Veteran, and passionate advocate for women veterans. Her mission is to guide women from feeling uncertain to confident in their new identity as a woman professional.

https://wendiwray.com/

https://wendiwray.com/podcast/

#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