S02E19 | Military and first responder empowerment: how VESPIIA is making a change

Veteran Business Community Podcast

🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E19 | Military and first responder empowerment: how VESPIIA is making a change

In this episode, we chat with Shannon Hennessy, founder of the Veterans, Emergency Services & Police Industry Institute of Australia (VESPIIA)—the country’s first professional body supporting those who serve and those who support them.

Shannon opens up about launching VESPIIA with no safety net, her personal connection to service life, and how she’s building a stronger, more coordinated support system for veterans and first responders across Australia.

What’s more: Shannon also delves into the VESPIIA Awards for Excellence, Australia’s first awards program specifically acknowledging the outstanding individuals and organisations in the veteran and first responder support sector. These Awards spotlight exemplary volunteers, staff members, academics, students, chaplains, supplier and allied teams, and strategic partnerships—shining a light on the often under-recognised but high-impact work that shapes our future. Nominations for the 2025 cycle open until 18 August 2025, offering a powerful platform not only for recognition and peer celebration, but also for inspiration toward sector-wide excellence.. Nominate now!

💡 If you’ve ever wanted to create impact in the face of fear, this one’s for you.

🔗 Connect with Shannon: LinkedIn

🌐 Learn more: vespiia.org.au

🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community

#VBC #MilitaryMindsetforBusiness #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #FirstResponders #Leadership #VESPIIA