VET S.O.S. Podcast

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re honored to sit down with Patriotic Kenny (Kenny Jary), a Navy veteran whose story exemplifies resilience, community, and a steadfast commitment to helping others. Kenny shares his remarkable journey, from serving aboard the USS Okinawa during the Cuban Missile Crisis to his transition to civilian life and an unexpected viral moment that changed everything. After retiring from a 32-year career at Ford Motor Company, Kenny faced new challenges when a broken-down mobility scooter threatened his independence. Thanks to a TikTok GoFundMe campaign spearheaded by Amanda, a dedicated school teacher and now his “adopted daughter,” Kenny not only received a new scooter but gained a platform to give back to his fellow veterans. Thus, the Patriotic Kenny Foundation was born—a nonprofit dedicated to combating veteran isolation by providing mobility scooters to those in need. With over 140 scooters donated across the country in just one year, Kenny reflects on the impact of the foundation, the importance of community, and his mission to ensure no veteran feels left behind. He also opens up about the challenges he faced transitioning out of the military without support programs and how that experience shaped his dedication to serving others. From 5K charity runs to school penny drives, Kenny and Amanda are finding creative ways to involve communities in their mission. This episode is filled with laughter, touching stories, and Kenny’s signature optimism. He even shares some fun anecdotes about ice fishing, his love of bowling, and a bold prediction that his Minnesota Vikings are headed to the Super Bowl! Key Topics: - Kenny’s time aboard the USS Okinawa and the Cuban Missile Crisis - Challenges of military-to-civilian transition in the 1960s - The viral TikTok moment that sparked a movement - The creation and rapid success of the Patriotic Kenny Foundation - The importance of combating veteran isolation - Fun and inspiring activities like the foundation’s annual 5K walk/scoot/run - Kenny’s thoughts on staying active and living life to the fullest Support Kenny’s Mission: Visit www.patriotickenny.com to learn more about the foundation, donate, or get involved in supporting our veterans. Join us for this unforgettable conversation, and remember: Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! #vetsos #VeteransSupport #PatrioticKenny #MilitaryTransition #VeteransHelpingVeterans #EndIsolation Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://lnkd.in/eJkHJyWt

?? Watch Kenny share his passion for supporting veterans through the Patriotic Kenny Foundation! ???? Kenny’s deep-rooted military family history inspired him to give back. His father served in the Army, his uncle in the Navy, and their dedication shaped his belief that supporting veterans isn’t just a choice—it’s a duty. That’s why he started the Patriotic Kenny Foundation—because those who fought for us deserve everything in return. Join us in honoring their service and making a difference! ??? #PatrioticKennyFoundation #SupportOurVeterans #MilitaryFamily #VeteransDeserveBetter #HonorAndRespect #VETSOS

?? The Silent Battle of Military Transitions Transitioning out of the military isn’t just about a new job or routine—it’s an?emotional shift that can bring unexpected struggles.?Many veterans experience?depression, anger, and frustration?as they adjust to civilian life. The most important thing??Recognizing when something isn’t right & taking action.?There are resources available—both in and out of the military—so no one has to navigate this alone. ???If you're a veteran or know someone who is, let’s make mental health support a priority. ???What’s one resource or tip that helped you the most in a life transition? #MentalHealthMatters #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #YouAreNotAlone #CareerChange #Leadership

?? One Year, 141 Scooters Donated! ?????? In just one year, the Patriotic Kenny Foundation has donated 141 scooters across the country, changing lives one ride at a time! ?? Our mission is to keep veterans and individuals moving, and we’re not stopping anytime soon. Our goal? 23-24 scooters donated each quarter—because mobility matters. ???? Listen to Kenny share our journey, the impact we’re making, and how YOU can help us reach even more people in need. Together, we ride forward! ?? Watch, share, and support our mission! #PatrioticKennyFoundation #MobilityMatters #VeteransSupport #GivingBack #MakeAnImpact #ScootersForHeroes #PatrioticKenny #VETSOS

?? Empowering Veterans in Transition, Entrepreneurship, and Education! ??? At VET S.O.S. Podcast, we are committed to ensuring that no veteran navigates transition alone. This week’s newsletter is packed with inspiring stories, actionable insights, and valuable resources to support veterans, service members, and military spouses. ??? Podcast Highlights: ? Abigail G. Manning – Founder of Create Awareness...Change Lives, Inc. shares how her Authentic Health framework helps veterans overcome limiting beliefs and thrive in transition. ? Sam Westfall – Army veteran, entrepreneur, and competitive archer, discusses how archery therapy is changing lives and building a strong veteran community. ? Randy Spade – Executive Director at Ashland University dives into how universities can truly support military-connected students and enhance veteran education. ?? Career Opportunities & Resources: ?? Discover new job listings and veteran programs that can help take your career to the next level. ?? Connect with leaders in the veteran community through our Who’s Who Weekly List of Resources. ?? Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! ?? Watch the full episodes: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast ?? Listen on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/et2bAryF ?? Follow @vetsospodcast on all platforms! Tag a veteran who needs to see this! ?? #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #Entrepreneurship #Education #VETSOS

Watch Stephen break down how transitioning to civilian life affects the whole family—not just the service member. In this video, he explains why tailored support for spouses is essential and highlights tools designed to address those everyday challenges that often go unnoticed. If you’re making the transition, remember that your family’s well-being is just as important. #VETSOS #MilitaryFamily #FamilySupport #SpouseSupport #TransitionTogether #VeteranSupport

?? Who’s Who in Military Transition! ?? We’re back with another spotlight on incredible leaders making a difference in the military transition space! These outstanding individuals bring their unique expertise and passion to help veterans and service members navigate the transition to civilian life. Do yourself a favor—connect with them and follow their journeys! ?? This week’s featured leaders: Robby Hedrick, Ed.D., MBA, M.A.A.L., LSSGB Nick Padlo Chad Rohr Kathryn Poynton Sam Lee Kelly Stull Kayla LaFond Ann O'Keeffe Rodgers James M. Andrew T. Yarbrough ?? This continuing list keeps growing! Who else should we be following to strengthen our community? Drop their names in the comments below! ?? Stay tuned for next week’s lineup of 10 more impactful voices in military transition. Parade Deck ClearPath Wealth Strategies | Who Ya Know Show #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #TransitionSuccess #VeteranCommunity #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranEmpowerment #NetworkingForVeterans #VeteranResources #LeadershipTransition #CareerTransition #VETSOS

How can universities truly support military-connected students? Randy Spade, Executive Director of Admissions and founding director of Ashland University's Jack W. Liebert Military and Veteran Resource Center, joins us to share the game-changing initiatives that have transformed Ashland into a top-tier veteran-friendly institution. ?? In this episode, we cover: ? How Ashland built a one-stop resource hub for veterans ? The Battle of the Branches competition—fostering community from day one ? The importance of identifying ALL military-connected students (not just those using VA benefits) ? Cutting-edge support like VR mental health tools & financial planning ? The powerful role of community investment in veteran success ?? Whether you're a veteran transitioning to college, an educator looking to improve veteran programs, or someone passionate about higher education and military support, this episode is for you! ?? Subscribe now and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! ?? Listen to the full episode on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/et2bAryF ?? Follow us on social media: https://lnkd.in/eBrFRtMD #VETSOS #VeteranSuccess #MilitaryEducation #HigherEducation #VeteranResources #MilitaryTransition #AshlandUniversity #StudentVeterans #GrabTheLifeline #MilitarySupport Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://lnkd.in/eJkHJyWt

Check out this inspiring video of Abigail sharing her personal journey of trust, authenticity, and resilience. In her own words, she talks about how quickly trust can be earned when you’re real and honest about your experiences—even if you’re not a therapist. With a nod to her Marine Raider heritage, Abigail explains how her background, coaching experience, and life’s hardships have shaped a genuine connection with those around her. It’s a heartfelt reminder that true strength comes from embracing vulnerability and caring deeply for one another. #VETSOS #Authenticity #Trust #Resilience #MarineRaiders #Inspiration

???Certifications & Job Programs Constantly Change—Here’s Why You Should Act NOW Even just?a couple of years ago, certification programs were?being updated while people were still in them. ???Policies & requirements change. ???Budget cuts can impact funding. ???If you have an opportunity to upskill or get certified, take it now! ??Staying ahead of industry changes keeps you competitive in today’s workforce. ?? What skill are you currently working on? Let’s discuss! #CareerGrowth #Certifications #JobTraining #StayAhead #ProfessionalDevelopment