Episode 0007 - The Hidden Cost of Service: USERRA and Veterans Discrimination

Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler

Picture this: you mention your upcoming military training to a colleague in the breakroom—and suddenly, you’re being treated like a liability instead of an asset. You thought your service mattered. You thought the law had your back. You were right—but only if employers follow it.

In this episode of Midweek Sitrep, host Jerry Fowler breaks down one of the most overlooked threats to U.S. national security: discouraging military service by failing to protect those who serve.

He unpacks USERRA—the federal law designed to protect servicemembers from losing their civilian jobs—and exposes the all-too-common ways it’s violated in boardrooms, breakrooms, and HR offices across the country.

You’ll learn:

• The history of veterans’ employment protections—and why they still matter
• What USERRA really guarantees (and what it doesn’t)
• What discrimination looks like in 2025 (hint: it’s not always a pink slip)
• A real DOJ case that shows what happens when companies violate the law
• What employers must do to stay compliant—and what happens if they don’t
• How failing to protect reservists isn’t just illegal—it’s a threat to U.S. military readiness

As always, Jerry also covers the national security stories that should be on your radar.

Whether you’re a business owner, compliance officer, policy professional, or just national security curious—this episode will leave you smarter and sharper than before.

This episode kicks off a two-part requested series for the men and women who choose to live extraordinary lives in service of something greater than themselves—and for their families, friends, and coworkers to better understand the jobs they do and the sacrifices they make.

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Everything is National Security

About the Host: Jerry Fowler

Jerry Fowler is the founder and creator of Midweek Sitrep and OPCEN Media Group LLC—a creative intelligence company dedicated to demystifying complex issues involving national security, law, and leadership. Through sharp storytelling and expert analysis, Jerry helps audiences understand the global forces shaping business, policy, and power.

In addition to his media work, Jerry is an attorney and national security policy professional with deep experience at the intersection of law, business, and government regulation. He currently leads the CFIUS and National Security practice at a global risk consultancy, where he advises companies on navigating export controls, sanctions, and U.S. national security regulatory frameworks.

Whether behind the mic or advising clients, Jerry brings clarity to complex systems—and makes national security make sense.

Jerry previously served as a West Virginia Assistant Attorney General, a federal attorney, and as a contract member of the U.S. Department of Defense’s CFIUS team. He continues his service in the Army National Guard as a Judge Advocate (Army lawyer).

Outside of work, Jerry enjoys CrossFit, distance running, hiking, and, like a true West Virginian, exploring the outdoors. He’s an avid traveler, writer, and musician, and values time spent with friends and family.

Disclaimers:

Midweek Sitrep with Jerry Fowler is an independent production of OPCEN Media Group LLC.

The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and any guests, and do not reflect the official policy, position, or endorsement of any current or former employer, client, government agency, military organization, educational institution, or any other entity with which the host may be affiliated.

Mention of any company, product, or service does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Any references are provided for informational purposes only.

This podcast does not disclose any classified, proprietary, or confidential information. All discussions are based on publicly available information and personal expertise.