214: Jen Amos wraps up Season 9 with gratitude

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qeXZu6FrNys

And that's a wrap for Season 9 of Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth! As Jen focuses on other business endeavors, she expresses how she found this short season very gratifying. She reflects on why she started the show in the summer of 2019 and how her motivations have evolved throughout the seasons. She addresses a commonly asked question about her personal story and association with the military. She expresses gratitude and invites the listener to stay in touch with "Inside the Fort by US VetWealth" at https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/portal

SEASON 10 AIRS FALL 2025! Until then, take care and happy holidays, all!

MENTIONED RESOURCES

• 027: Gold Star Daughter Jen Amos Returns to the Military Community 20+ Years Later After Losing Her Father https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/episode/027
• 047: Season 3 Trailer of Holding Down the Fort Podcast with Gold Star Daughter, Veteran Spouse and Host Jen Amos https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/episode/047
• BONUS: "The families of our fallen deserve to have their loved one's story told and preserved for future generations." Gold Star Family's Day with Dennis Schroader https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/episode/bonus-2021-09-26
• 109: "You can support someone, but ultimately, they have to want to get that help themselves." Gold Star Families and Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with Leslie McCaddon https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/episode/109
• Silent Soul: The MM1 Alfonso Apdal Amos Story (The Price of Freedom Chronicles - Cold War Era) https://priceoffreedomfoundation.org/alfonso-apdal-amos
• Public presentation MM1 Alfonso Apdal Amos' book https://www.facebook.com/share/p/e7S55XLYUt9Nw4js/

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

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Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at

213: Resilience, Growth, and Community Building with Keyani Washington & Kenneth Gay

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/byx1FJGPh0c

Jen Amos checks in with past guests from The Rosie Network, Keyani Washington and Kenneth Gay. Together, they share their experiences, challenges, and rewarding moments in helping military-connected entrepreneurs through the Service2CEO program. They share updates on their business endeavors, and they highlight the benefits of leveraging opportunities like podcasts for marketing purposes.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• 153: "Put on your freaking shoes and walk." Keyani Washington's Journey From Hairstylist to Skin & Hair Wellness https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/episode/153
• 161: "You only get one life to live. Whatever brings you life and energy, do it." Dr. Kenneth Gay's complementary careers in the military and education https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/episode/161

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

--

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards for the Government & Organizations category. In November 2021, the show was an Award Finalist for the 5th Annual National Veteran & Military Spouse Entrepreneur Awards. December 2021, the show was a Golden Crane Podcast Awards Nominee. September 2022, the show was a Finalist for the 13th Annual Plutus Awards presented by Capital Group for “Best Military Personal Finance...

212: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Seabolt Discuss How Military Retirees Can Turn Their TSP Savings into Lifetime Income

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cU9OfxSYino

Jen Amos takes a break from hosting to showcase US VetWealth's Founder and CEO, Scott R. Tucker, and Life Insurance Case Design Specialist Mike Seabolt.

Scott and Mike discuss financial planning strategies specifically for military retirees, highlighting the unique challenges they face during their mid-career transition. They cover the importance of transforming accumulated assets, like the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), into guaranteed income streams through financial products such as fixed indexed annuities.

Scott and Mike share insights on how annuities work, their benefits, such as zero downside risk and guaranteed lifetime income, and options for increasing income based on market performance. Lastly, they address the importance of managing financial risks and securing a stable post-military financial future.

Get in touch with US VetWealth today: https://usvetwealth.com/usvw-complimentary-strategy-session-intake-2/

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

--

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards for the Government & Organizations category. In November 2021, the show was an Award Finalist for the 5th Annual National Veteran & Military Spouse Entrepreneur Awards. December 2021, the show was a Golden Crane Podcast Awards Nominee. September 2022, the show was a Finalist for the 13th...

211: Nina Pinidi Addresses Textured Hair Care Needs in the Military Community

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2Rz_7MVLBaw

Have you ever struggled to find the right hair products while serving in the military? Listen to how Nina Pinidi founded Solime Royal Hair to deliver all things hair, free of harmful chemicals and eco-friendly products for all people, because... YOUR HAIR IS YOUR CROWN.

Facing hair loss and challenges with military grooming standards, Nina turned her personal experiences into a mission to serve the military community. She discusses the importance of finding chemical-free hair products, her struggle with alopecia, and the launch of her business aimed at helping those with textured hair. As a new entrepreneur, she highlights the invaluable support of The Rosie Network's Service2CEO program, appreciating the free resources given and its strong support system. Whether you’re a veteran looking to start your own business, have textured hair care needs, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is for you!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/nina-pinidi/
• https://solimeroyalhair.com/

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

--

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards for the Government & Organizations category. In November 2021, the show was an Award Finalist for the 5th Annual National Veteran & Military Spouse Entrepreneur Awards. December 2021,...

210: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Discuss Military Retirement and Financial Planning in an Unstable Market

Jen Amos takes a break from hosting to showcase US VetWealth's Founder and CEO, Scott R. Tucker, and Blue Water Advisors' Founder and CEO, Mike Wallace.

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-isNQnJ0kpA

In this replay episode of 'Take A Knee' Live Show, Scott and Mike discuss various aspects of military retirement, financial security, and career transitions for veterans. They emphasize the importance of building a 'war chest,' managing post-military income streams and navigating financial uncertainties, such as market downturns and economic changes.

The discussion includes insights on making informed decisions about retirement funds, job security, and the impacts of industry fluctuations on career opportunities. They also highlight the significance of continuous networking and staying adaptable in the civilian job market.

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

--

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards for the Government & Organizations category. In November 2021, the show was an Award Finalist for the 5th Annual National Veteran & Military Spouse Entrepreneur Awards. December 2021, the show was a Golden Crane Podcast Awards Nominee. September 2022, the show was a Finalist for the 13th Annual Plutus Awards presented by Capital Group for “Best Military Personal Finance Content.”

Holding Down the Fort has also been featured in multiple media outlets including Military Entrepreneur (M.E.) Magazine, MOAA’s Never Stop Learning Podcast, The Leadership Void Podcast,...

209: Colleen Marchi helps children overcome sleep and anxiety with The Brave Knights

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qn2bET2-ytE

What are some bedtime rituals you have with your children to help them with sleep and anxiety? Colleen Marchi encourages families to have Sir William the Brave Knight from The Brave Knights, which empowers kids to control their fears.

Colleen shares her journey as a military spouse, mother, and reluctant entrepreneur. Colleen created The Brave Knights to help her son cope with nighttime fears during her husband's deployment. Years later, it evolved into a business aimed at helping other families. She discusses the psychology behind the Brave Knights kit, the importance of addressing children's fears, and valuing self-care as a parent. Lastly, Colleen highlights her experience with The Rosie Network's Service2CEO program and offers advice for aspiring military-connected entrepreneurs.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• https://magicalorderofbraveknights.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/MagicalOrder

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

--

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards for the Government & Organizations category. In November 2021, the show was an Award Finalist for the 5th Annual National Veteran & Military Spouse Entrepreneur Awards. December 2021, the show was a Golden Crane Podcast Awards Nominee. September 2022, the show was a Finalist for...

208: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Seabolt Discuss Alternative Options to the Survivor Benefit Plan

Jen Amos takes a break from hosting to showcase US VetWealth's Founder and CEO, Scott R. Tucker, and Life Insurance Case Design Specialist Mike Seabolt.

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/D0LHRleK0Fw

Scott and Mike discuss alternatives to the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) for retiring military retirees. They explain how military retirees can use private insurance products to potentially gain better value and more control over their financial future. They compare the mechanics of SBP with private industry alternatives, emphasizing flexibility, liquidity, and the potential for tax-free growth.

Scott and Mike review illustrative scenarios for retirement planning using life insurance policies, highlighting cost comparisons and potential long-term benefits. Lastly, they discuss the importance of understanding numbers, planning with VA disability income, and leveraging existing assets.

Get in touch with US VetWealth today: https://usvetwealth.com/usvw-complimentary-strategy-session-intake-2/

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

--

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards for the Government & Organizations category. In November 2021, the show was an Award Finalist for the 5th Annual National Veteran & Military Spouse Entrepreneur Awards. December 2021, the show was a Golden Crane Podcast Awards Nominee. September 2022, the show was a Finalist for the 13th...

207: Evangelina Blue-Williams shares how family and flavor shape Mystic Blue BBQ

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/go7qByPmM9U

What's your favorite BBQ sauce? Evangelina Blue-Williams with Mystic Blue, a retired military veteran turned BBQ sauce entrepreneur joins us to share hers.

Evangelina shares her passion for cooking, how a homemade BBQ sauce spawned a business, and the unique flavors she offers. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of Evangelina transitioning to civilian life, attending culinary school, and participating in entrepreneurial programs such as The Rosie Network. Evangelina also talks about the importance of natural ingredients, family influences, and future goals of getting her products into grocery stores.

Listen to her journey of culinary creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of entrepreneurial dreams, all deeply rooted in personal experiences and a love for family traditions.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• https://www.mysticbluecatering.org/
• https://www.tiktok.com/@mysticblue_official
• https://www.facebook.com/MysticBlueOfficial/
• https://instagram.com/mysticblue_official

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

--

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at https://usvetwealth.com/

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual...