Milspouse Matters

Watch the Unwavering book trailer and see this episode's complete show notes here.

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Published on: January 17, 2024

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A Talk with the Authors of Unwavering: Taylor Kiland and Judy Gray- Ep. 113

On this episode, I'm honored to be speaking to Judy Gray and Taylor Kiland, the authors of the newly released book, Unwavering: The Wives Who Fought to Ensure No Man is Left Behind.

About the book: In a time when women faced countless challenges and societal limitations, these military wives dared to defy the status quo. They transformed from bystanders to frontline activists, passionately advocating for the return of their missing and captive husbands during the Vietnam War. Their unwavering determination made the fate of their men—and the others who were POWs and MIA— a national priority, despite the odds stacked against them. "Unwavering" is not just a book; it's a love letter to military spouses everywhere.

Judy and Taylor, both military veterans themselves, take us on a journey behind the scenes of this incredible project. Discover what inspired them to tell this powerful story and what kept them motivated throughout the writing process. Get a sneak peek into the remarkable tales of perseverance and courage found within the pages of Unwavering. This is the quintessential American narrative of how a group of women, once silenced and sidelined, reshaped the way America fights its wars.

Get the Unwavering book on Amazon here.

Connect with Unwavering, Judy, and Taylor:

Unwavering book website: https://www.unwaveringbook.com
X, Facebook, and Instagram as @Unwaveringbook
Linked in: Judy Silverstein Gray, Taylor Kiland

Mentioned in this episode:

Military Moves and Deployments During the Holidays
Jen’s new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories
Get 20% off the 5-Day Deployment Devotional during December with code December23 here

Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

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Published on: December 13, 2023

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Military Moves and Deployments During the Holidays - Ep. 112

Are you dealing with a military move or deployment right smack dab in the middle of the “most wonderful time of the year”? Let's talk about ways to cope and giving yourself permission to do what works for you and your family.

Mentioned in this episode:

Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters

Get 20% off the 5-Day Deployment Devotional during December with code December23: https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/

Surviving a Military Move During the Holidays from MilitaryByOwner: https://blog.militarybyowner.com/surviving-a-military-move-during-the-holidays

Getting Through the Holidays While Your Spouse Is Deployed: https://jen-mcdonald.com/getting-through-the-holidays-while-your-spouse-is-deployed/

Episode 99: Dealing with Anxiety as a Military Spouse: https://jen-mcdonald.com/show-notes/episode-99-dealing-with-anxiety-as-a-military-spouse/

The Christian Milspouse Podcast: https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcast/christian-milspouse-podcast/

Free mental health help and counseling:
https://www.militaryonesource.mil/

Telemynd (covered by TRICARE): https://www.telemynd.com/humanamilitary

Having a Baby Overseas: What Military Spouses Should Know: https://jen-mcdonald.com/having-a-baby-overseas-what-military-spouses-should-know/

Want me to speak at your next military spouse event, book club, or conference? I'm also happy to drop in virtually to your book club or meeting! Contact me here: https://jen-mcdonald.com/contact/

Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

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Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: December 7, 2023

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Coming Back from Rock Bottom with Charlynda Scales - Ep. 111

I'm so happy to bring you my talk with Charlynda Scales, author of the brand new book, Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline, which has already ranked as a best new release in its category!

She’s a veteran, now a reservist, a former military spouse, and an entrepreneur.

Charlynda is not only impressive, but she's a kind-hearted person who is wise beyond her years. But that wisdom has been hard-won. We discuss the stories behind her book, her journey to becoming an entrepreneur, aligning yourself with others who are like-hearted vs. like-minded, advice for entrepreneurs or anyone starting over, and how to come back when life has brought you to rock bottom. As Charlynda says about the idea of "rock bottom has a trampoline,"

"I've heard the saying, 'rock bottom has a basement.' How freaking depressing is that statement? There's no faith in that. There's no light at the end of the tunnel in that quote. If you believe in something bigger than yourself, you'll never truly be at rock bottom. Rock bottom is not a place you go and stay. Rock bottom is a moment."

Here’s more about Charlynda:

Charlynda Scales is a serial entrepreneur: She serves as founder and CEO of Mutt's Sauce LLC and OH Taste LLC; Director of the OH Taste Foundation (501c3), and creator of The Empower Collection. She is the author of the business empowerment book, Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline.

Charlynda is a sought-after speaker and mentor for women's empowerment and small businesses. Her military career spans over 15 years; she's currently an Air Force Reservist stationed at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

Her son, David, is, in her opinion, her finest achievement.

I'm certain you're going to be so inspired by Charlynda, just as I was.

Get Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline Here: https://amzn.to/3Qv3DNM

Get Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters

5-day Deployment Devotional, half off in the month of November with code November23: https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/

PILLAR online FREE deployment retreat, Nov. 17-19, 2023 - sign up here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/209167998492858

Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

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Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: November 9, 2023

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PACT for Animals: Fostering Pets for Military and Veterans - Ep. 110

It's no secret that military families love their pets! But what do you do if you're facing a deployment and have no one to care for your pet? Or if you get an overseas assignment to a location your pet can't go? Enter PACT for Animals! PACT for Animals is dedicated to fostering pets for active duty U.S. military members on deployment or an assignment where they cannot bring their pet and veterans in medical crisis.

On this episode, I’m speaking with Julie Zantopoulos from PACT for Animals. Julie shares the mission of PACT for Animals, which functions in all 50 states, information on how to foster or find care for pets, and ways you can support PACT for Animals. They’re the only nationwide nonprofit that screens and matches pet fosters, facilitates the reunion, and also supports both the foster and pet’s family through the duration of the separation.

Connect with PACT for Animals:

Mentioned in this episode:

Get Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters

5-day Deployment Devotional, half off in the month of November with code November23: https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/

PILLAR online FREE deployment retreat, Nov. 17-19, 2023 - sign up here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/209167998492858

Podcast deployment episodes: https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcategory/deployment/

Deployment blog posts: https://jen-mcdonald.com/category/deployment/

See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMep110

Connect with Jen and Milspouse Matters:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd
Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources
PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS
Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog
Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads
Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks

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Socials:

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Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: November 1, 2023

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A Home for Surviving Spouses and Veterans: A Chat with Brooke McLean, CEO of the Air Force Enlisted Village - Ep. 109

In this episode of Milspouse Matters, Jen talks with Brooke McLean, retired CMSgt and President/CEO of the Air Force Enlisted Village (AFEV), a one-of-a-kind-community which has a mission of providing safe, secure homes for surviving spouses of military retirees and retired military couples.

They discuss Brooke's military background, the mission of AFEV, and some of the wonderful stories of the residents, several of whom are featured in Jen’s new book! Hear about a day in the life of a resident, eligibility criteria for residents, some heartwarming stories, and future plans for AFEV—including future developments like Victory Village and help for caregivers of our nation’s Wounded Warriors—along with encouraging words for current military families.

Brooke also talks about his YouTube series, "Cook with Brooke," and ways listeners can help support AFEV, a 501c3 nonprofit. As Brooke says, if you’re having a bad day, just get out and visit with one of the residents. Find out how to plan a visit to AFEV and tune in for an inspiring conversation about supporting military widows and retired couples.

Mentioned in this episode:

Get Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters

5-day Deployment Devotional, FREE through Oct. 31 with code deployment23: https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/

PILLAR online FREE deployment retreat, Nov. 17-19, 2023 - sign up here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/209167998492858

See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MM109AFEV

Connect with the Air Force Enlisted Village:

Connect with Brooke McLean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-mclean-1b531329/

Connect with Jen and Milspouse Matters:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

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Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: October 26, 2023

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After the Boxes Are Unpacked with Susan Miller- Ep. 108

Have you ever felt lost after a military move? Are you trying to figure out how to get connected? Do you feel "stuck"?

Susan Miller from Just Moved Ministry is here to talk about settling in, plugging in, and finding your new normal after a move...after the boxes are unpacked! As she says, "Don't isolate yourself. Join up, and join in!" She not only understands and validates the feelings of being alone and rootless after a move (she was both a military brat and military wife), but gives practical tips on getting involved and connected. She reminds us, "God will not take you anywhere that He doesn't have a place for you."

In 1995, Susan launched Just Moved Ministry out of a desire to offer the encouragement and hope of Jesus Christ to women uprooted by a move. Thousands of uprooted women around the world have contacted Just Moved Ministry for personal encouragement, helpful resources, inspiration, prayer support, an online community, and to find the location of an After the Boxes Are Unpacked study group.

Connect with Just Moved Ministry at justmoved.org and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JustMovedMinistry

and Instagram as https://www.instagram.com/justmovedministry/

Get Jen's new book! https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters

This episode's ad:

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Connect:

This episode's complete show notes: https://jen-mcdonald.com/show-notes/after-the-boxes-are-unpacked-with-susan-miller-ep-108/

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: October 6, 2023

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Best of: Preparing for Deployment and Reintegration - Ep. 107

On this episode, I'm discussing the issues that spring up with deployment and reintegration with guest Terri Laurent, a seasoned military spouse who’s sharing a ton of wisdom.

This episode is a "best of" from waaaay back on Episode 34.

Have you dealt with the emotional build up leading up to deployment? Have you wondered why the service member’s homecoming isn’t like what you see on TV or the movies? Maybe you’re struggling, and you think you’re the only one.

We talk about preparing your heart and marriage for deployment and reintegration, that time period after the service member returns home from a long separation/deployment.

This is part two of our talk–listen to part one on Episode 31, all about mentoring.

Mentioned in this episode:

The 5 Love Languages Military Edition
Terri’s blog: Even the Birds Believe and business website, First Light Photography

Podcast episodes on deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcategory/deployment/

Blog posts about deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/category/deployment/

This episode's ad:

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Subscribe and save 20% on your Pink Stork favorites. Learn more---> https://amzn.to/3Lyvwmd

Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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*some affiliate links

Published on: September 22, 2023

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Help Your Marriage Thrive During Deployment and Military Separations - Ep. 106

Can you actually strengthen your marriage through a military deployment or separation? I believe, yes, you can! With mindfulness and intention.

First, I'm sharing some tips from my experiences, then we’ll be hearing from other military spouses who’ve weathered deployments and separations.

Mentioned in this episode:

Jen's book launch team - https://jen-mcdonald.com/books/new-book/

Podcast episodes on deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcategory/deployment/

Blog posts about deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/category/deployment/

This episode's ads:

Please consider supporting, which in turn supports the production of this podcast!

SpaLife: Pamper yourself or get a gift set for a friend. Use the code 20SLOWDOWN in your Amazon cart for 20% off all SpaLife products(Amazon only). https://amzn.to/48iv2dE

Munk Pack 1g Sugar Nut & Seed Bars: Gluten-free, keto friendly, plant-based, non-gmo verified, and delicious! Pretzel dark chocolate and other flavors. Use promo code SAVE10MP for 10% off all Munk Pack Nut & Seed Bars, Amazon only, ends 12/31/2023. https://amzn.to/3t1KcUv

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Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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*some affiliate links

Published on: September 15, 2023

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Navigating Military Life with Humor - Ep. 105

Life as a military spouse is an intricate dance of challenges and uncertainties, along with so many adventures. On this “best of” episode, we revisit one of my favorite interviews. I’m talking to author Lisa Molinari about her military spouse journey, and how she’s found solace and strength through humor and processing life through writing.

Lisa refers to herself as a “garden variety military spouse” (which you might disagree with after you listen to her story!). She's never been nominated for Military Spouse of the Year, but her journey is a story of resilience that will resonate with you. Throughout her decades of military life, Lisa learned to find humor in hard and even absurd circumstances. Rather than succumbing to the challenges that come with this lifestyle, she's chosen to seek out the silver lining and share her experiences through laughter.

In my conversation with Lisa, she recounted instances where humor became a lifeline during her military spouse journey. With stories from “Pork Chop Envy” to unforeseen deployment hiccups, Lisa reminds us that these crazy things we go through will become the best stories one day!

Connect with Lisa: Facebook I Instagram I Twitter I Pinterest
Get Lisa's book, The Meat and Potatoes of Life: My True Lit Com
Lisa's website: The Meat and Potatoes of Life

This episode's sponsors:

Please consider supporting our sponsors, which in turn supports the production of this podcast!

Pink Stork, The Wellness Brand for Women®, was born out of military spouse Amy's desire to help others. Pink Stork offers clean, effective supplements supporting fertility, morning sickness, pregnancy, postpartum, nursing, and more.

Prenatal Vitamins: https://amzn.to/451psuq
Labor Prep Tea: https://amzn.to/3DPQAk4
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Connect:

This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMep105

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

*some affiliate links

Published on: August 18, 2023

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Best of: Pro Tips for Your PCS Move - Ep. 104

It's PCS move season and it's the perfect time to share some helpful resources for your military family.

Military life usually comes with a guarantee of change, and one of the most inevitable changes is moving. Whether you're a seasoned military family or embarking on your first Permanent Change of Station (PCS), my goal is to provide you with a wealth of information and actionable advice! With personal experience from living in 24 houses, going through 13 PCS moves, with 4 overseas tours in there, all while towing along 4 kids and a dog, I share some of my own tips along with insights gathered from fellow military spouses and listeners on this Best Of episode. Here's to making your moving journey a little smoother and perhaps even injecting some laughter along the way!

***Find all resources mentioned (and more!) in this exhaustive PCS resource page: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMep104

This episode's sponsors:

Extended Stay America for PCS Lodging Needs: https://extendedstayamerica.3qag.net/YMJWr

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HyperGo Wipes are 12" x 12" unscented wipes that offer you a square foot of cleanliness and comfort. Their unique embossing technique ensures an ultra-soft and durable feel, making every clean-up a breeze.

Subscribe and save and save 10% now and up to 15% on future deliveries.

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Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook

Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: July 13, 2023

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Moving with a Baby: Tips from Experienced Military Spouses - Ep. 103

On this Best Of episode, we're bringing back some tips for making a move with a baby, all from experienced military spouses!

Whether you're relocating stateside or embarking on an overseas adventure, moving with a baby as a military family can be quite a challenge. The logistics of travel, the emotional adjustments, and the added responsibilities of caring for a little one can make the process overwhelming.

To help you navigate this exciting yet demanding journey, we've gathered tips from military spouses who've been through it! From flying with a baby to preparing mentally, my hope is that these insights will help you approach your move with confidence and grace.

See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEp103

Sponsors:

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HyperGo Wipes for Your Life

Full-Body Rinse-Free Hypoallergenic Biodegradable Bathing Wipes—the ultimate solution for staying refreshed and clean anytime, anywhere. Perfect for post-workout, camping adventures, travel, and your daily life. They're designed to be gentle and safe for all skin types while being environmentally-friendly.

HyperGo Wipes are 12" x 12" unscented wipes that offer you a square foot of cleanliness and comfort. Their unique embossing technique ensures an ultra-soft and durable feel, making every clean-up a breeze.

Subscribe and save and save 10% now and up to 15% on future deliveries.

Learn more about HyperGo Wipes here---> https://amzn.to/44ePv0z

Mentioned in this episode:

Military Kids' Resources: https://jen-mcdonald.com/resources/military-kids-resources/

Cares Airplane Harness for Kids: https://amzn.to/448LCdE

Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

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Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: July 6, 2023

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Best of: When Your Child Joins the Military - Ep. 102

On this "Best of" episode, join me and guest Elaine Brye as we delve into the unique challenges faced by parents with children serving in the military. We explore strategies, resources, and personal stories that provide support and guidance to parents on this extraordinary journey. Discover a community that understands what it's like to have a child in the armed forces.

Elaine Brye, author of the book Be Safe, Love Mom, shares her hard won wisdom and experience with other military families. She’s an “Army brat” turned military wife and the mom of four active duty members—one each in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. She’s been through more than 15 deployments with her children and understands the pride, worry, and fear that are the life of a military parent.

Elaine talks about what’s helped her get through the hard times as a military mom, tips for better communication between in-laws, as well as encouragement and practical ideas for parents whose child is deployed.

Get Elaine's book, Be Safe, Love Mom: https://amzn.to/3CQiKuM

Connect with Elaine: Be Safe Love Mom- The Sisterhood of Military Moms, Facebook

This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEp102

Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs

Calling all pet owners! Are you looking for a natural solution to help calm your furry friend? Look no further than Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs. With all-natural and holistic ingredients, their customers rave about the hours of calming relief these delicious soft chews provide for their dogs. Made in the USA and veterinarian approved, you can trust the quality and effectiveness of Well Loved Calming Chews.

If your pet is affected by 4th of July fireworks or summer thunderstorms, prepare now! Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs are the solution you've been searching for. And don’t miss out on upcoming Prime Day deals on July 11-12. You can also save with their subscribe and save options on Amazon, or by buying 2 or more of selected items. https://amzn.to/3NMpSyE

Do You Really Know Your Family? A Fun Family Game Filled with Conversation Starters and Challenges - Great for Kids, Teens and Adults!

Are you looking for a fun and engaging way to bond with your family during those long trips or military moves? Look no further than "Do You Really Know Your Family?" The Ultimate Family Card Game! Find it here: https://amzn.to/3CKSlhT

Connect:

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

International Pet and Travel Association (IPATA)

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook

Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: June 28, 2023

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Moving with Pets: Essential Resources and Expert Advice - Ep. 101

Have you moved with pets? There's always something new to learn when it comes to our furry family members. On this Quick Tips episode, I'm sharing a few resources to help make your military move with pets easier.

Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs

Calling all pet owners! Are you looking for a natural solution to help calm your furry friend? Look no further than Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs. With all-natural and holistic ingredients, their customers rave about the hours of calming relief these delicious soft chews provide for their dogs. Made in the USA and veterinarian approved, you can trust the quality and effectiveness of Well Loved Calming Chews.

If your pet is affected by 4th of July fireworks or summer thunderstorms, prepare now! Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs are the solution you've been searching for. And don’t miss out on upcoming Prime Day deals on July 11-12. You can also save with their subscribe and save options on Amazon, or by buying 2 or more of selected items.

Order your Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs today. Give your pet the relaxation they deserve with this veterinarian-approved and trusted product. https://amzn.to/3NMpSyE

Resources mentioned for moving with pets:

The “Patriot Express” - see AMC Pet Travel page

Dogs on Deployment Rich Setzer Memorial Grant Fund offers financial assistance for certain pet expenses for military members (generally E-6 or below.

Operation Military Pets from the SPCA, now known as “Apollo’s Aid” - helping military families stay united with their pets.

Operation We Are Here - an extensive list of pet relocation grants and help for military families.

Operation Roger - volunteer truckers helping transport animals.

Pet Relocation reimbursements from the DOD - see the latest guidance here (Currently is $550 for CONUS move, up to $2K for OCONUS): “

American Humane Society

Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet

PACT for Animals

State Humane Societies (check with your state)

Delta Airlines’ guidance for year-round shipment of animals and American Airlines PetEmbark program

Amtrak pet transport

Find even more help with your PCS move with my extensive list of PCS resources. Click on the "moving with pets" tab for more!

Connect:

This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMmovingwithpets

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook

Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: June 24, 2023

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Celebrating 100 episodes! - Ep. 100

We've hit the 100 episodes milestone of the Milspouse Matters podcast! I can’t thank you enough for the continued support throughout this podcast’s journey so far. And don’t miss the BIG GIVEAWAY I’m throwing to celebrate, including some gifts provided by my amazing publisher, W. Brand Publishing. Find it on my Instagram and Facebook (links below). Note: this giveaway expires June 25, 2023.

Sponsored ad: Check out Avocado Huggers, an eco-friendly solution for saving your avocados. Avocado Huggers not only keeps your avocados fresh, but they also care about the environment. These adorable, easy-to-use alternatives to plastic wrap for preserving avocados were created by a woman and inventor owned company. Thousands of 5-star reviews, a lifetime warranty, and dishwasher safe! Celebrate National Avocado Day on July 31st by investing in an Avocado Hugger! Get yours here with my affiliate link (this link does not cost you more, but helps to support my podcast and other work): https://amzn.to/3Cu0ZkT

On this episode, I reminisce about my podcast journey and the amazing guests and support we’ve had over nearly 5 years and 100 episodes, along with the global reach of the Milspouse Matters podcast. During this time, I’ve also juggled family life, run multiple podcasts, and kept a full-time job from home.

Looking Back and Looking Ahead

We discuss the challenges and breaks necessary due to COVID-19, family tragedies, and other life events.
I’ve received so much amazing help from friends and podcast pros Lana and Tara, and now my daughter Anna who is working on some behind-the-scenes projects.
I encourage potential podcasters to take the leap, despite the work it takes to keep a podcast running.
Future plans: Introducing more guests, changing the format, and always focusing on encouraging and supporting military spouses.

As always, I invite your feedback and topic suggestions, and I would be so grateful if you left a 5-star review on your favorite podcast app to help support the show.

I couldn’t do this without you, dear listeners, and I am forever grateful for YOU.

And remember….you are brave, you are strong, and you’ve got this.

Happy 100 episodes!

Connect:

This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEp100

Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook

Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: June 15, 2023

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Dealing with Anxiety as a Military Spouse - Ep. 99

After dealing with anxiety and panic attacks as a young adult, things came to a head for Marine Corps spouse Erin after some big military life changes. She was physically ill, having daily panic attacks, and struggling to leave her house when she realized she needed to do something more than what she'd always done: try to cope alone. On this episode, you'll hear from Erin, a.k.a. “The Short Wife,” about her journey to finding the help and resources she needed.

Erin says: “I didn’t know what was going on with me. I didn’t feel like myself…but I wanted to believe it wasn’t real. And I didn’t know how to ask for help.”

Erin has documented her journey on her website and Instagram, talking honestly about anxiety and other mental health issues. She’s known for being open, authentic, and warm and also brings humor to tough issues.

She shares some of her favorite mental health resources and books, but most of all wants you to know that, if you’re dealing with anxiety too, you’re not alone. She says,

“You are not alone in your struggles. There’s always someone who can relate to you, and there’s a whole community to support you.”

Connect with Erin:

Erin’s site, The Short Wife www.theshortwife.com
Find her on social media as @theshortwife

See this episode’s complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MM99anxiety

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Online Therapy Covered by TRICARE:

Telemind https://telemind.com/

Accounts that specialize in anxiety help on Instagram:

@anxiety_wellbeing https://www.instagram.com/anxiety_wellbeing/

@therapywithmaggielpc https://www.instagram.com/therapywithmaggielpc/

@theanxietydoctor https://www.instagram.com/theanxietydoctor/

Find more resources on Erin’s Instagram account!

Books

The Upward Spiral by Alex Korb https://amzn.to/3HzAFsn

Unwinding Anxiety by Judson Brewer https://amzn.to/3AN3w8K

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Jen’s site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook

Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: May 3, 2023

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Helping Teens Through a Parent's Deployment - Ep. 98

teens and parent's deployment On this Quick Tips episode, we're talking about helping teens navigate a parent's deployment.

So often, deployment resources are geared towards younger children, and while that’s of course important, and I’ve also covered it before on several episodes, today we are focusing on our teenagers.

This info is from part of a talk I gave during the amazing and supportive PILLAR deployment retreat in fall 2022 about helping your teens—and yourself!—through a parent’s deployment.

Teens are so amazing, challenging, and wonderful, all at the same time. Helping our teens get through the deployment of a parent is a privilege, but it’s a time that we can use all the help we can get. Our military family went through multiple deployments, and one of my claims to fame is getting through a year-long deployment of my husband when all four of my kids were teenagers at the same time. If I can do it, you can do it, too! We'll talk about some practical tips for helping teens navigate this tough time, as well as finding support for YOU.

This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! Visit Jen’s shop here: https://bit.ly/MMPodshop

See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMPteensdeployment

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grab your free PDF download about deployment and teens: https://bit.ly/teensdeployment

Milspouse Matters Episode 24 - Walking with Young Children Through a Parent’s Deployment: https://bit.ly/41m9ZmC

Military Kids Resources: https://bit.ly/MMPmilkids

Military OneSource call 800-342-9647 or live chat on their site: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/

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Jen’s site:

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook

Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Published on: April 19, 2023

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Starting Your Own Business as a Military Spouse - Ep. 97

Wendy Hively shares a behind the scenes look at how she started her successful business, Charliemadison Originals, while also working full-time as a scientist. As a longtime Navy spouse who's now the wife of a retiree, Wendy has a lot of wisdom about work/life balance, how she pivoted when the military took her family to Japan, avoiding burnout, the ways that entrepreneurship can be a great path for military spouses and the lessons she learned, while also being realistic about the hard work it requires. As Wendy reminds us, you don't get a prize for working all the time! I so enjoyed talking with Wendy, and I think you’ll be inspired to take a look at your own work/life balance, whether you’re an entrepreneur or not.

Connect with Wendy and Charliemadison Originals at https://charliemadisonoriginals.com/ and on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/charliemadisonoriginals/
and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charliemadisonoriginals

See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEpisode97

- - - -

This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! See Jen’s shop here: https://bit.ly/MMPodshop

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Jen’s site:

Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources

Jen’s blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog

Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads

See this episode's complete show notes.

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Socials:

Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta

Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook

Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok

Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter

Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

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Your opinion matters! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here with my listener survey: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

Published on: April 5, 2023

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Tips for Settling In at a New Duty Station - Ep. 96

On this Quick Tips episode, I'm answering a question a listener submitted for advice about getting established at a new duty station, even if it's not a place you would have chosen to live or you don't think it's the greatest location.

On Episode 93 I talked about how to cope when you hate your duty station, so be sure to go check out that longer episode!

I'm sharing some of my experience as well as some input from my Christian Military Spouses Facebook group.

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. **Use code STUDY15** for 15% off this guide! See Jen’s shop here.

Your opinion matters! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here with my listener survey: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

Published on: March 22, 2023

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Managing Your Finances as a Military Family - Ep. 95

On this episode we’re talking about some hot topics: managing and saving your money with my amazing guest Kate Horrell.

Kate brings a sensibility to managing your finances, along with a deep understanding of military life since she has lived it herself. We cover topics like setting a spending plan, ways to save money, ideas for saving and investing when you're living on one income, getting out of debt, how to save up for a house when you're living in military housing, and so much more. She also answers some of your questions about finances that you submitted on Instagram. This is a don't-miss episode! Whether you feel like you've got a handle on your finances or not, trust me, you'll come away with some new insight and tips from Kate!

Kate is offering a new amazing resource that has been years in the making. Check out the Everything-You-Need-Binder, a godsend for military families! If you’ve ever worried about what you’d do in a family emergency and need to give instructions to grandparents or caregivers or simply wish to get your life more organized, this is for you.

Get the Everything-You-Need-Binder here!

Grab these FREE guides from Kate:

See this episode's complete show notes.

This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. **Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! See Jen’s shop here.

I want to hear from you! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

Published on: March 15, 2023

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Preparing for an Overseas Military Move - Ep. 94

Planning for an Overseas Military Move Milspouse Matters Episode 94 On this episode, we’re talking about planning for your overseas military move, both some practical tips as well as preparing yourself mentally for this big change in not only where you live, but also likely a bit of a culture shock. It’s fitting that as I recorded this, I’d just returned from a long trip to Ireland, and that looong overseas flight was still fresh in my mind!

My own family went through over a dozen military moves, four of them overseas. I’m sharing some lessons learned as well as some of my hard-won tips as you prepare for your move overseas!

See this episode's show notes.

Resources mentioned:

Jen’s Ultimate PCS Move Resource List (click the button at the top for specific overseas tips!)
Planning Your Overseas PCS
Lessons Learned from Living Overseas
11 Things to Know Before Your Overseas PCS Move
Milspouse Matters Episode 59: Make the Most of Your Military Travel Benefits
Can a Military Family Move Overseas Without Command Sponsorship?

Other episodes about moving overseas:

Military resources:

It’s Your Move document offered by TRANSCOM
Plan My Move from Military OneSource
my.move.mil, the new system from USTRANSCOM to support the relocation of families during PCS (currently by invitation only)

This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. **Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! See Jen’s shop here.

I want to hear from you! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

Published on: March 1, 2023

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How to Cope When You Hate Your Duty Station - Ep. 93

Looking for your help! Please take this short survey about the podcast and let me know your opinion.

*Brand new!! You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions

Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this digital download!

You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse - the book

On this episode, we’re talking about how to cope when you hate where you’re stationed with the military.

First, I answer a couple of your questions, including what’s been my favorite place the military sent us and also my favorite/least favorite things about being a military spouse.

if you don't like where you're stationed, it can be a challenging time, but let’s talk about:

Every place can’t be your absolute favorite, and you might outright dislike where you’re living.
Start small and focus on one thing you can find that’s positive.
How to avoid the negative spiral.
Remember this is not forever.
Keep your eyes open for potential friends—they’re what make the tough assignments worth it!
Watching out for the pitfalls of the comparison trap.
How to get yourself out there, and taking care of yourself.

See this episode's complete show notes.

More resources:

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Published on: February 8, 2023

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MSAN Provides Mentoring and Support for Military Spouses - Ep. 92

On this episode, I’m thrilled to be speaking with Verenice Castillo, the founder of the Military Spouse Advocacy Network (MSAN).

If you're not familiar with MSAN, their motto is to Educate, Empower, Support, and they certainly do that!

Verenice and I talk about the importance of connecting with your military spouse community as well as understanding that you're not alone in this military life. Find others who've been where you've headed and who can share their experiences with you. And if you're in a place of being more experienced, learn how you can connect with MSAN and become a mentor or volunteer. Thank you, Verenice and MSAN, for the work you're continuing to do and for being such a shining light in the military community!

See this episode's complete show notes and resources mentioned.

Connect with MSAN:

More resources:

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Published on: November 16, 2022

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Military Care Packages with Navy Veteran Jack Wray - Ep. 91

Have you ever wondered the best process for sending a military care package? Want some help in creating your own or are you looking for a curated care package to send to your service member?

On this episode, I'm joined by Hero Care Packages CEO Jack Wray, and we're discussing all things military care packages!

Some topics we discuss:

The story behind Hero Care Packages (which features veteran curated military care packges!)
Tips for DIY military care packages
The benefit and process of sending a care package with Hero Care Packages: types of boxes offered, how the process works, subscriptions, where they ship
How to watch out for care package scams (yes, they exist)
And more!

See this episode's complete show notes and all resources mentioned.

Connect with Hero Care Packages:

Make sure to follow the Milspouse Matters Instagram to enter the giveaway for one free care package, and use code milspousematters for 20% off your first care package at Hero Care Packages!

The PILLAR deployment retreat is coming Nov 4-6, 2022!! I'll be talking about helping your teens through a parent’s deployment. Along with many other military spouses and military life experts, we're all here to help you power through deployment. It’s all online and completely free, so grab your tickets here: PILLAR digital deployment retreat.

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Published on: October 27, 2022

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Getting Through Deployment - Ep. 90

We talk about the topic of deployment a lot on this podcast, and with good reason. It’s such a challenging time for military members and their spouses, families, or significant others. I’ve been SO excited to bring you this episode, as Becky Hoy and Joanna Guldin-Noll are truly experts on this topic, and they’re sharing their insight and encouragement with you.

Becky and Joanna are the cohosts of PILLAR, the totally free online retreat for deployment countdowns, happening Nov 4-6! Becky is the Founder of Brave Crate, the deployment countdown box for military spouses, and Joanna is the writer behind one of the largest military spouse lifestyle blogs online, Jo, My Gosh!

Becky and Joanna share:

What they learned about themselves during deployment
Their top tips for making the most of deployment
When it’s hard, and thriving isn’t really happening
The vision behind the PILLAR deployment retreat and how you can connect

See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned.

Here’s how to connect!

Get your FREE ticket to the upcoming PILLAR deployment retreat at www.pillardeploymentretreat.com
PILLAR @pillardeploymentretreat on Facebook and Instagram
Jo, My Gosh!
Joanna on Facebook and Instagram
BraveCrate
BraveCrate on Facebook and Instagram

Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Published on: October 19, 2022

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Support for Military Homeschoolers - Ep. 89

Let's talk about homeschooling in the military, as well as a brand-new podcast created to support military homeschooling families!

Since all my kids are now grown, one thing you might not know about me is that we were a homeschooling family for a couple of decades and loved that time with our four kids. I was also the managing editor for a large homeschooling magazine for a couple of years! On this episode, I'm talking to Crystal Niehoff, the host of the Military Homeschool podcast. And bonus! Visit the show notes, and I'll share a few of my very favorite homeschooling resources.

Guest Crystal Niehoff has a lot of wisdom and is a long-time homeschooler, so if you’ve ever wondered about homeschooling or simply need some encouragement for your homeschooling journey, this episode is for you! Crystal shares how her family began homeschooling, some of their best memories, how homeschooling is a great fit with military life, and all about her new podcast, the Military Homeschool Podcast.

See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned.

Thanks to CodeWizardsHQ for sponsoring this episode. Give your child programming knowledge, skills, and the confidence to thrive in a digital world through fun and effective live, online coding classes. For kids ages 8-18, you’ll find beginning basics to their innovative internship program. Visit CodeWizardsHQ to learn more and get a 30% military discount.

Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Thanks to Wits & Weights podcast for being a sponsor of this episode. Hosted by Philip Pape, Wits & Weights examines the evidence and turns those into specific actions to implement so you can perform better in the gym, at work, and in life. Listen to Wits & Weights using your favorite podcast app or at witsandweights.com/podcast and get your FREE Protein Power Transformation Program at witsandweights.com, a 14-day habit transformation to help fix your nutrition and get more protein.

Published on: September 28, 2022

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Let's Talk About Military Marriage - Ep. 88

A military marriage is not the same as a civilian marriage, and conventional wisdom doesn’t always apply. From advice like you have to have a weekly date night to you must communicate about everything, how does this work in keeping your military marriage strong? It just doesn’t apply if you're apart a lot or have recently moved and don't have resources like childcare.

I'm sharing some tips from our 34 years of marriage. While we’re not perfect (no one is!), we’ve learned a few things and I hope they will help you grow your own marriage!

See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned.

Thanks to CodeWizardsHQ for sponsoring this episode. Give your child programming knowledge, skills, and the confidence to thrive in a digital world through fun and effective live, online coding classes. For kids ages 8-18, you’ll find beginning basics to their innovative internship program. Visit CodeWizardsHQ to learn more and get a 30% military discount.

Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Published on: September 14, 2022

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Answering Listener Questions & New Season! - Ep. 87

Welcome back to a new season! On this episode, I'm answering listener questions and talking about what's coming.

Some topics we cover:

Is it ok to call yourself a milspouse or military spouse?
What's been the hardest (and best) part of being a military spouse?
How much should I share with my spouse when they're deployed?
I feel nervous about homecoming. Is this normal?
How to stay sane when facing a PCS move after just having a baby?
Do you have any insight on living in Bahrain?
Did you ever feel torn between personal happiness/priorities and spouse’s job/career change?
Any advice on how to handle feelings of resentment starting to build?
Do you have any tips to keep our relationship strong during an overseas PCS?
Is it normal to feel jealous of the relationship my spouse has with the Army? I feel second place.
Is it normal to be sad about going from dating for 2 years to joining military life and missing my old life?
How do I prepare for an overseas PCS move? I’m overwhelmed!

See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned.

Thanks to CodeWizardsHQ for sponsoring this episode. Give your child programming knowledge, skills, and the confidence to thrive in a digital world through fun and effective live, online coding classes. For kids ages 8-18, you’ll find beginning basics to their innovative internship program. Visit CodeWizardsHQ to learn more and get a 30% military discount.

Follow the Christian Milspouse Podcast

Get Jen’s book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Published on: August 24, 2022

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A Military Spouse Overseas - Ep. 86

On this episode, I'm talking to Julie Tully, the author of the upcoming book, Dispatches from the Cowgirl: Through the Looking Glass with a Navy Diplomat's Wife.

Julie is the spouse of a Foreign Area Officer and has spent the last 18 years living overseas in different countries in Africa and Europe. In fact, Julie recorded this episode from Italy, right smack in the middle of a PCS move!

She’s a cowgirl-turned-nomadic Navy spouse and she writes about life, culture, and the places where they intersect. Julie and I cover a lot of this topics in this episode, including her family’s multiple tours overseas, how it’s felt being “America” to the people they’ve lived among, her life as the spouse of a Foreign Area Officer, tips for moving overseas, the story behind her upcoming book, their soon return to the U.S., and how her son—who’s never lived in the U.S.— feels about it all!

See the complete show notes for this episode here.

Connect with Julie at her site: Julie Tully

Find Julie on social media:

Get Jen’s book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who’d be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application. Note that all requests right now will be put on a waiting list for late 2022-2023!

This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

Published on: June 23, 2022

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Support for Seasoned Military Spouses with Pride & Grit - Ep. 85

On this episode, I'm talking to Jen Pasquale from Pride & Grit.

Jen is a 15-year active-duty Army spouse, mom of two, and champion for seasoned military spouses. In 2018, Jen founded Pride & Grit as a support community, resource hub, and as of 2021, host of an annual personal development retreat for seasoned military spouses. As a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, Jen also offers identity coaching using the CliftonStrengths assessment. As a coach, Jen helps spouses develop pride in their unique talents while cultivating the grit to use those talents and lean into an identity beyond service.

We talk about her work and support for seasoned military spouses, including their struggles, how often we keep our problems to ourselves so we appear strong, what others misunderstand about “senior spouses,” and ways you can begin to prepare for the end of your servicemember’s career and take care of yourself.

Jen talks about Pride & Grit and how it came about. She says,

“A lot of us have been around a long time, and we’ve weathered a lot of hard things in military life. A lot of us were tired. It’s not that we didn’t love being a service family, but we were tired. And I noticed that people didn’t have a space to be tired that was supportive for them.”

If you can relate, this is the episode for you! Be sure to also check out the yearly Evolve Retreat for seasoned military spouses.

Connect with Pride & Grit and learn more about the Evolve Retreat.

Find Pride & Grit on social media:

This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

Published on: June 7, 2022

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Shine Sis: Helping You Find Purpose in the Milspouse Journey - Ep. 84

This week, I’m talking to Mary Monrose and Candus Griffin, military spouses, mothers, and hosts of the Shine Sis podcast.

I first connected with them on Instagram, where I saw their posts and loved the positive message they were sharing.

When I realized they were also military spouses, I knew we had to talk!

About Shine Sis: It’s hard trying to find your purpose in life, especially when you are consumed with always putting your family first. Join Military spouses Candus Griffin and Mary Monrose, as they share life experiences and interview guests who can help you be successful in your journey. If you ever felt like your life was moving without direction or if you felt limited by your circumstances, then this podcast is for you.

You'll hear how Candus and Mary met and decided to start a podcast, some of their tips for deployment, finding their own place and purpose in the military space, and what’s coming for Shine Sis as they look to give back to other women. You’ll surely relate to some of their story! Listen to Shine Sis here or in your favorite podcast player. Connect with Shine Sis on Instagram: @shine_sis_podcast

Click here for the complete show notes for this episode, including study questions and Scriptures mentioned.

This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

Published on: May 25, 2022

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Moving with a Baby - Ep. 83

Whether you're moving stateside or overseas, making a move with a new baby can be a challenge. Get some tips from experienced military spouses! I was asked about this on social media, and here are some of my tips along with input from other military spouses. We talk about:

Flying with a baby
Tips for cross-country travel
Preparing mentally
Giving yourself plenty of grace!

See my extensive list of resources for moving with military kids, including babies!

Find the complete show notes for this episode.

This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

Published on: May 10, 2022

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Comparisons & Admitting You Need Help - Ep. 82

Here’s the second installment of the study of my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse, that we’ve been doing in the Christian Military Spouse Facebook group. As mentioned on the last episode, I decided to share the audio from my talks there on the podcast, and this is the week 2 study covering readings 5-7.

If you’d like to join in the ongoing book study and discussion, join us in the Christian Military Spouses Facebook group! (link below)

Don’t have the book? Get the new, updated 2022 edition here: You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.

If you have the first edition from 2016, that will work fine too!

We're covering the themes of comparisons, discontentment with military life, and admitting when we need help. Sometimes military spouses need the reminder that we don’t get a medal for being the toughest and doing everything on our own! Another pitfall can be comparing our situation to our civilian friends and family and wishing we had it differently. We’re going to talk about not comparing, ways to cultivate contentment, and the importance of not struggling alone and finding that community we all need.

Common question: Do you have to be religious to read this book?

While this book is written from the perspective of faith, I think there is so much that pertains to any military spouse!

This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

Published on: April 26, 2022

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Giving Up Control in Military Life - Ep. 81

In the Christian Military Spouses group, we’ve been doing a book study of my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouses, and I’ve been talking via video each week there. I'm sharing the audio from those talks over the coming weeks. This is the week 1 study, going over Days 1-4 in the book.

(Note: If you’d like to join in the ongoing book study and discussion, join us here: Christian Military Spouses Facebook group.)

Don’t have the book? Get the new, updated 2022 edition here: https://amzn.to/3rBxJDW

If you have the first edition from 2016, that will work fine, too! Grab your favorite beverage, find a comfy spot, and let’s visit. I want this to feel like we’re having coffee together. (OR you can listen on the go—I totally get the busy milspouse life!)

On this installment, we’re discussing the intro and Days 1-4, with the themes of coming to terms with military spouse life, giving up control, and finding our identity in Christ. If you don’t have the book/haven’t read it yet, I think this week’s talk will still be of interest to you as a military spouse.

Common question: do you have to be religious to read this book?

Answer: While this book is written from the perspective of a Christian military spouse, I think there is so much that pertains to any military spouse!

See the complete show notes for this episode here, including questions and Scriptures mentioned.

Published on: March 15, 2022

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Facing a Sudden Deployment - Ep. 80

Whether you’re a new or longtime military spouse, a sudden deployment can throw you into a tailspin.

If you’re facing an unexpected deployment of your spouse, this episode is for you. We’re talking about ways to cope, how to connect with others (even if you don’t think you need to), some conventional wisdom that may or may not apply to you, permission to handle deployment in a way that works best for you, and tons of resources for you as a military spouse, your kids, and even your extended family members like in-laws and parents.

Remember: you don’t have to do this alone!

FIND ALL RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE HERE.

Need more support and want to connect with other military and first responder spouses? The InDependent Wellness Summit is next week, March 7-11. It's all online! Register here---> register. General admission is FREE.

Published on: March 1, 2022

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Advocating for EFMP Families & Military Kids in Special Education- Ep. 79

Guest Jennifer Barnhill shares the vision behind Partners in Promise, the challenges and barriers EFMP (Exceptional Family Member Program) families face, especially as pertains to special education for military children, the results of their 2021 survey findings, and what Partners in PROMISE does to advocate for military families. They offer so many resources, including checklists, videos, a podcast, ways to get involved, and so much more. Thank you, Jennifer, for allowing us to see a tiny bit of all that Partners in PROMISE does and helping us understand more about this important topic. And if you’re feeling alone, please connect, as there is no need to walk this path by yourself!

Whether your own military family is ever in need of EFMP or special education services or not, knowing more about these programs and passing the word along to other families is so important.

Learn more about Partners in Promise, see the infographic and other resources mentioned in this episode.

**Register for the InDependent Wellness Summit: Flourish (All online) here---> register. General admission is FREE.

Published on: February 15, 2022

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Setting Goals When Military Life Is Uncertain- Ep. 78

It’s a new year, and by now many of us have already given up on those New Year’s resolutions! And you tell yourself, why even bother setting goals when you’ve just moved, are about to move, or find yourself in the middle of a deployment or some other change? Is it even worth setting personal goals for yourself when the demands of the military always take precedence?

But wait a minute! Your goals and dreams are still worth chasing, military spouse. So let’s talk about some ways to be kind to yourself, set realistic goals, move forward a little bit at a time, and even embrace your Plan B when needed.

Resources mentioned in this episode.

Published on: February 1, 2022

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Support for Submarine Spouses - Ep. 77

I’ve had a lot of requests for more Navy spouse interviews, so I’m happy to bring to you my talk with Chelsea Davis from The Submerged Life! I first discovered the Submerged Life through their funny memes on Instagram and knew I had to reach out to these great ladies.

Chelsea Davis, Meagan Guise, and Kaileigh Lear are Navy spouses and founders of the blog "The Submerged Life." As newly-christened submarine spouses, it didn’t take them long to realize the resources they needed weren’t as readily available as they’d like… and so it all began! They launched The Submerged Life in 2019 and have since built a community for sub spouses and families from around the world. Written by spouses for spouses, their blog is your guide to living and loving the submarine life.

Whether or not you're a sub spouse, I think you'll be encouraged by Chelsea's perspective!

Connect with them at www.thesubmergedlife.com and on social media:

Instagram: @TheSubmergedLife
Facebook: @TheSubmergedLife

Published on: January 18, 2022

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Military Life and the Holidays - Ep. 76

Are you torn between traveling to see your extended family and staying put to create your own holiday memories? Are you spending the holidays without your spouse due to deployment, training, or a remote assignment? Have you just moved and don't know a soul and are missing all your family and friends?

Let’s talk about it!

On this episode, I discuss your first holiday season as a military spouse, managing expectations, the pull of “going home” and the importance of creating your own traditions, getting through the holidays during deployment, and some of my favorite holiday memories as a military family!

I took a poll in my Christian military spouse Facebook group, and I'm sharing what other military families do during the holiday season as well.

Published on: December 9, 2021

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Fostering and Adoption as a Military Family - Ep. 75

November is National Adoption Awareness Month, and this week’s guest is sharing why military families can make amazing foster and adoptive families. In the U.S., nearly half a million children are in the foster care system on any given day. While those numbers are staggering, there’s much that we can do to help, whether it’s becoming a foster or adoptive family ourselves or supporting those who do.

Does it seem like fostering and adoption wouldn’t work for a military family? If you've ever been interested in this topic, you'll want to listen to this episode!

Courtney Woodruff discusses some of the challenges of fostering and adoption as a military family but also how it can work out so amazingly well. She talks about how to start the process and some of her own experiences. She and her husband have fostered ten children and recently adopted a baby, so she is right in the thick of it!

We’re also talking about Courtney’s new books for children. Some of the proceeds go to support foster and adoptive families!

See this episode's complete show notes.

Published on: November 23, 2021

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A Missionary Heart for the Military - Ep. 74

This week, I'm talking to Air Force spouse and missionary Megan Brown! Megan B. Brown is a seasoned military spouse and military missionary. She is the Military Liaison for the Speak Up Conference Global Missions Military Scholarship and the 2019-Armed Forces Insurance Robins AFB Military Spouse of the Year. She is passionate about military mission work and teaching and preaching about Jesus in and out of the local church. Her Bible study, Summoned: Answering a Call to the Impossible, published by Moody Publishers in Chicago, released in May 2021. She lives in south Mississippi with her husband, Keith, and their energetic kiddos. She is a Bible teacher, speaker, and freelance writer. To learn more or connect with Megan, visit meganbbrown.com.

On this episode, we talk about Megan’s new book, Summoned and how the study came about. Megan also shares her heart for military families, her work with Cru Military, and how has God met her in some dark places, and the hope you can also find. As she says, the gospel wrecked her, but through her experiences and finding strength in Christ, it also caused her to see herself in God’s greater plan. She reminds us, “From cover to cover of the Bible, women have been involved.”

Jen's "favorite things" this week:

Blackberries All Year: picture book by military spouse Courtney Woodruff. Part of the proceeds support fostering and adoptive parents!

Jen is on the Call to Marriage podcast this week, talking about deployment and the holidays!

Published on: November 17, 2021

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How to Thrive During Deployment - Ep. 73

On this episode, I’m talking to Becky Hoy, who is a U.S. Army military spouse of 10 years and the Founder of Brave Crate- the deployment countdown box for military spouses, and co-host of PILLAR- the digital retreat for deployment countdowns.

She shares about both those ventures, and talks about how she learned to make the most of the time apart from her husband vs. just wishing for it to be over. Be prepared to get a brand new perspective and encouragement for the difficulties of deployment. Becky tells us how her perspective shifted from “counting every minute to making every minute count” and some of her experiences as she’s been through multiple deployments.

The willingness to embrace change and the unknown is so important to getting through life as a military spouse, and Becky talks candidly of her struggles through this rollercoaster ride, while also reminding us that it is possible to thrive while your spouse is away.

>>> TAKE NOTE! SPECIAL OFFER FROM BECKY! USE THE CODE MILSPOUSE20 FOR 20% OFF YOUR FIRST BRAVE CRATE PLUS GET FREE TICKETS TO THE PILLAR DIGITAL RETREAT FOR DEPLOYMENT COUNTDOWNS, WHICH IS COMING UP FROM NOV 12-14.

Learn more:

Published on: November 3, 2021

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Military Spouse Friendships - Ep. 72

Welcome to this short bonus episode!

I hear from a lot of you about the topic of friendship, and I know how difficult it can be to find friends as a military spouse.

It’s not easy to roll into a new location and not know a soul. On this short episode, I’m sharing some thoughts about how to be a friend, how to find friends, and the friends every military spouse needs, along with reading a brief excerpt from my book You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.

See the complete show notes for this episode.

Published on: October 29, 2021

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Support for National Guard Spouses - Ep. 71

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which was created in 2012 by AAFMA, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association. The goal of Spouselink is to support, inform, and inspire military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org. We’ve had a lot of requests for a National Guard spouse to come on the podcast, so this is the episode for you! First, I’m sharing some ideas from National Guard spouses from my Facebook group for ways to connect with other spouses and the military community. Next, I’m talking to National Guard spouse Julie Provost, who you may know from her popular blog Soldier’s Wife, Crazy Life. She's sharing her perspective as their family transitioned from active duty to National Guard, ways to connect with the greater military community, common misconceptions about National Guard families, plus so much more! See the complete show notes for this episode.

Published on: October 26, 2021

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Coping with Grief and Loss - Ep. 70

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which was created in 2012 by AAFMA, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association. The goal of Spouselink is to support, inform, and inspire military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org.

The guest for this episode is the amazing and insightful Trevor Romain, who you may remember from episode 63 when we talked about his work with military kids.

While we were speaking on that episode, we briefly touched on the topic of grief and his work with children, including terminally ill children, over the past decades. We're so blessed to have him back to discuss this important topic. Even though grief is an uncomfortable subject, it’s also universal. We will all face it someday. But as Trevor says, we don’t have to forget those we love. We continue to carry them with us and live in a way that honors their memory. And, “The pain doesn’t really go away...you just learn to make friends with it. “

Learn more:

The Trevor Romain Company: What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies?

**Use my code MILSPOUSEMATTERS for 15% off any purchase at the Trevor Romain Company!

Connect with the Trevor Romain Company:

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube

Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse
Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Published on: October 19, 2021

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A Seasoned Military Spouse Perspective - Ep. 69

It’s so important to feel connected as a military spouse! We’re talking about that today with Lizann Lightfoot and hearing about her brand new book, Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses, a collection of letters for military spouses straight from her heart and experience. You don’t want to miss this!

On this episode, we talk about the process and her vision behind this book, as well as many other military life topics. I am certain you will be encouraged by the wisdom and warmth Lizann shares, no matter where you are on the journey of military life.

Published on: October 12, 2021

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Make Your Military Marriage Stronger - Ep. 68

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which was created in 2012 by AAFMA, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association. The goal of Spouselink is to support, inform, and inspire military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org.

Someone wise once told me many years ago, What kind of marriage do you want in 30 years? What you do now determines what it will be then. I’m so glad I took that advice to heart. Any military spouse who’s been in military life for a minute or two realizes that military marriage comes with a lot of stress points. During one particularly tough time in our marriage, I knew something had to change. But darnit, the only thing I had control over was…me. I had to begin looking at life differently and not try to change my spouse. It wasn’t working, anyway! (As a control freak, this is still an ongoing lesson!)

On this episode, I’m sharing a few tips from over 30 years of marriage. Marriage takes work, but it should also be fun! If you’re not laughing together regularly, something is off. Yes, even in the hard times, humor is so necessary!

See the “scorpion story” I reference here: Strengthening Your Military Marriage.

For big marriage issues, of course there are no easy answers. Do you need some support? I have a lot of podcast episodes and blog posts about military marriage that I hope will be some help to you. If you need counseling and support, contact your military chaplain or connect with Military OneSource for free, confidential counseling.

Domestic Abuse Hotline—call 800.799.SAFE (7233) or visit their website.

Published on: October 5, 2021

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Milkid Mailkit Connects Military Children- Ep. 67

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which supports, informs, and inspires military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org.

I’m so excited to be talking about Milkid Mailkit™, a pen pal program for military children, with one of the program’s co-founders, Brunella Costagliola. Brunella and her husband Michael Gosselin created Milkid Mailkit™ to encourage and foster international friendship for military children through the art of letter writing.

The season of COVID and her own children being in front of screens more than ever with schooling going online made Brunella realize her kids' need for more connection. With beautiful stationery created by world-renowned creator and longtime Disney theme park designer and illustrator, Valerio Mazzoli, and their own inspiration of connecting military kids as penpals, Milkid Mailkit™ was born. You may recognize the symbol of military kids—the dandelion. Every illustration captures the adventurous spirit, inspiring diversity, and barrier-breaking horizons of military life.

See the show notes for this episode.

Learn more about Milkid Mailkit™.

Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Published on: September 28, 2021

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Listener Q & A - Ep. 66

Welcome to the latest Listener Q & A episode!

Just a reminder, you can send questions to me on the Milspouse Matters Instagram or email me for possible inclusion in the next round!

Today, we’re covering questions like:

What are your thoughts on planning weddings in the military? Or just trying to plan anything as a milspouse with this unpredictable lifestyle? (or is it not really as unpredictable as it seems)
How and when should you apply for military base housing?
Sometimes the areas of OPSEC and security measures seem to be approached differently by a lot of military spouse influencers. I guess I’m just wondering what good practices would be. Also, any suggestions for a wife who can’t really talk to her husband about work because he’s Intel?
Finding military spouse connections in Washington, D.C.
Advice for making friends in big cities when you don’t live on base and aren’t established yet.
Tips on helping your marriage during a tough deployment.
Homeschooling military kids.
And more!

Click here for the show notes and resources mentioned.

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Published on: September 15, 2021

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Afghanistan: One Military Spouse's Perspective - Ep. 65

In light of what’s going on in Afghanistan, I thought it was important to address it. We’re a proud military family, and our son is now also serving on active duty.

While most of us agree that it was time to be done in Afghanistan, we deserved a better ending. You know who else deserved a better ending? The people of Afghanistan and our allies.

I’m hearing from a lot of military spouses. A common theme is “We’re angry.” They feel that their sacrifices mean nothing right now. They feel betrayed by their own country.

On this episode, I talk about our own family's experiences with Afghanistan and we honor those who were wounded or died there. I'm also sharing some ways you can help right now and resources to take care of yourself as a veteran, military member, or military family member.

Thanks to Scott Deluzio of The DriveOn Podcast for allowing me to share the tribute to his brother who was killed in Afghanistan.

Connect with those on the ground helping right now:

No One Left Behind
Save Our Allies
The USO
Keeping Our Promise
International Institute of St. Louis
LIRS Connect
Women for Women
Save the Children

Resources for military families and veterans:

Yellow Ribbon Box
Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255
Confidential help from Military OneSource: chat or call toll-free 1-800-342-9647
Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) Program
Be Safe, Love Mom

Deployment resources:

Click here for show transcript and complete show notes.

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Published on: August 26, 2021

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Summer Hiatus & What's Ahead! - Ep. 64

I'm taking a little break this summer! On this episode, I’m sharing what’s been happening the past weeks, where I’ve been, and what’s ahead for the podcast.

Thank you so much for listening for the past few years! I couldn’t do this without you amazing listeners. Interested in being a guest? Have an idea for a show topic? Keep listening!

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND ALL RESOURCES MENTIONED

Click here to get my book - You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Get your free 5-day Deployment Devotional

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Want to be a guest? Apply here.

Published on: June 18, 2021

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Trevor Romain Brings Hope to Military Kids- Ep. 63

When their dad was deployed, my kids were encouraged and impacted for the better by Trevor Romain and his work with the Comfort Crew for Military Kids, a non-profit organization that has a mission of supporting military children through all the stresses and challenges they face. (Maybe you’re familiar with their work too, and the Comfort Crew’s mascot, CUZZIE! “CUZZIE cares!”)

You are in for a treat! On today’s episode, I am so honored and thrilled to have Trevor here to share with us what he does through his work with the Comfort Crew and also the Trevor Romain Company, the motivation behind it, along with some great tips for parents of military kids that he’s gleaned from decades of working with kids. He talks about some of the stories which have affected him during his travels all around the world and how he copes with the deep issues he often encounters. He is a storyteller at heart, and I think you’ll be so encouraged and strengthened by what he shares.

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED

Connect with the Trevor Romain Company: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube

Connect with the Comfort Crew: Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube

Connect with Trevor: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Published on: April 22, 2021

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Resources for Your Military Kids - Ep. 62

If you know a military child, you know how incredible they are, as well as the many challenges they face. They make me want to be a better person! April is the Month of the Military Child, so let's talk about resources for our amazing military kids! But first, a little history behind it, as well as the 10 ways my military kids have inspired me. Click here for the blog post/show notes for this episode. Click here for the list of all military kid resources mentioned!

Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: April 14, 2021

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Tips for New Military Spouses - Ep. 61

Are you a new military spouse or know one? This episode is for you! OR maybe you want a refresher yourself.

I’m reaching back into the vault of my own experiences from nearly 3 decades of life as a military spouse as well of years of writing. I’m also sharing some great tips from friends and listeners (thank you to all who contributed!).

We’re discussing some hot topics and common questions, such as:

How can I make my military marriage work?
What about relationships between officer and enlisted spouses?
Finding friends and community as a military spouse.
Making time for yourself.

I’m talking about my top tips for thriving in your military spouse life, and I reference quite a few resources and past episodes.

Click here for the list of all resources mentioned.

Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: March 21, 2021

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The Spouse Angle: Breaking Down the News for Military Spouses - Ep. 60

Today I’m talking to Natalie Gross and Andrea Scott from the Spouse Angle podcast, which is just an amazing resource for military spouses, bringing you all the latest news.

In fact, I was on the Spouse Angle Episode 26: When Your Kid Goes to War, where I talked about being a military spouse and then a military mom as our oldest went on active duty.

We recorded this episode last fall, which you’ll realize as we mention the upcoming election and the Spouse Angle’s one year anniversary. Since I talked to them, they’ve launched a good news show, a monthly YouTube video series. They are encouraging people to send in story ideas! They also launched season 2 of the Spouse Angle in February.

Natalie and Andrea share what motivated them to begin The Spouse Angle, some of their favorite stories so far, and what’s ahead. They both came from military families and are professional journalists by trade. If you’re wanting to keep up with the latest news that affects you as a military spouse, you’ll want to subscribe to The Spouse Angle.

Connect with the Spouse Angle:

Spouse Angle Podcast Website
Spouse Angle on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram

Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram
Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Click here for complete show notes/resources mentioned.

Published on: March 9, 2021

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Make the Most of Your Military Travel Benefits - Ep. 59

On this episode, I’m talking to Stephanie Montague about how to make the best use of your military travel benefits, including Space-A flights (Space Available) and military recreation facilities.

She also shares how she and her husband did not do the typical ‘life after military retirement’ and how they’ve instead traveled and lived overseas since his retirement from the Army in 2015. Be warned: you may get a serious case of wanderlust after listening to this episode!

Of course, COVID has changed all things travel related, so if you’re hoping to travel Space-A, keep up with the latest official guidance from Air Mobility Command.

Connect with Stephanie!

Poppin Smoke: www.poppinsmoke.com
Poppin Smoke on Facebook and Instagram

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Jen’s “My Favorite Things”:

Resources mentioned by Stephanie Montague/Poppin’ Smoke:

Click here for complete show notes.

Published on: February 16, 2021

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Facing Military Life with Focus and Strength - Ep. 58

On this episode, I’m joined by Ashley Keller of GlowBodyPT. She’s a veteran, a professional triathlete, a military spouse, mom of 3 young children, and a prenatal/postnatal exercise specialist and certified personal trainer.

I first connected with Ashley on Instagram and just love her posts and her positive attitude, as well as her realistic and practical take on military life.

We’re discussing a range of topics—including tips on getting through deployment (her husband recently returned from his 9th deployment!), letting go of “Mom guilt” and the importance of making time to take care of yourself, becoming a stay-at-home mom when that’s not what you’d planned, balancing work and kids, and so much more! Ashley has so much good to share with you. Her tips on keeping your focus vs. worrying about a ‘schedule’ is worth pure gold.

** Special offer for listeners: Get 10% off of her 10 Minute Plan or 10% off the 12 Week Post Pregnancy Plan with the code MILSPOUSE10 at GlowBodyPT

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

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Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: January 31, 2021

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There Is Strength in the Waiting - Ep. 57

On this episode, I’m giving you an update of what’s been going on (fun things like a site relaunch, not so fun things like having COVID--ugh).

During this past hard year that was 2020, we’ve all become more familiar with waiting. I hear from so many of you--you’re waiting for your loved one at boot camp, you’re counting down the days to the end of deployment, you’re waiting for PCS orders that are on hold, or you just arrived somewhere and you’re the new person...and you’re longing for normalcy so you can connect with others and form a community again. Wait, wait, wait…

Waiting can seem like a waste of time or that we’re doing nothing, but I want to remind you there is strength in the waiting. Join me as I discuss some lessons learned in the waiting.

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse
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Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: January 25, 2021

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Military Couples Without Kids - Ep. 56

For whatever reason, you and your spouse have delayed having children or won’t ever have any. As far as the military goes, are you still a family? Do you often feel left out of military family oriented activities? Do the little jokes and comments about ‘when are you going to have a baby’ sting?

Today, I’m being joined by Jennifer Brantley, who you may remember from Episode 44 and the great discussion we had: “Where Do We Go From Here? A Military Spouse Discussion on Racism and Resources.”

One topic I've been asked to cover several times is from military couples without children who wonder if there is a place for them and who often feel left out of unit or base activities. So today we’re talking about it--how leadership and those planning base activities can better reach out to childless military couples, how friends can help--or hurt--and how we can all be a little more sensitive and inclusive to everyone.

Whether or not this is your situation, I think this discussion will help you better relate to other military families!

LEARN MORE ABOUT JENNIFER BRANTLEY AND GET ALL SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED.

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

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Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: November 16, 2020

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Soldiers' Angels Supports Military and Veterans- Ep. 55

On this special bonus episode, I’m speaking with Amy Palmer, the president and CEO of Soldiers’ Angels, who’s sharing what Soldiers’ Angels offers and how you can support them or even request services.

Soldiers' Angels is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides aid, comfort, and resources to the military, veterans, and their families. Founded in 2003 by the mother of two American soldiers, hundreds of thousands of Soldiers' Angels "Angel" volunteers assist veterans, wounded and deployed personnel and their families in a variety of unique and effective ways. Their motto is:

“May no soldier go unloved † May no soldier walk alone † May no soldier be forgotten † Until they all come home.”

Learn more at soldiersangels.org and find them on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.

If you’re looking for a way to give back, volunteer, or support military and veterans, there are opportunities, even during this time of COVID! Find out more about the Soldiers' Angels programs.

CLICK HERE FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED AND THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse
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Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: November 12, 2020

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Deployment Support for Spouses with Yellow Ribbon Box - Ep. 54

On this episode, I’m talking to Kaci Jones of Yellow Ribbon Box. Kaci is a veteran and also the spouse of an active duty Air Force member. When she decided to separate from active duty herself in order to spend more time with her daughter, she knew she wanted to continue to give back and serve. That's when she decided to start a small non-profit supporting military spouses and military spouse and veteran owned businesses.

Yellow Ribbon Box, which is a 501c3 Texas Non-Profit Corporation, has a mission to support military members, veterans, and their families. One way they do that is through their Yellow Ribbon Box care packages. These care packages not only boost the morale of military spouses but they also showcase products created by military spouse and veteran owned businesses!

Kaci shares the story behind Yellow Ribbon Box, along with some tips for getting through deployment!

CLICK HERE FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED AND THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse
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Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: November 9, 2020

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Learning to Embrace Life as a Military Spouse - Ep. 53

Milspouse Matters Episode 53 Embracing Life as a Military Spouse with Bryce Langley Was military life not something you'd planned on? Has it taken a toll on your marriage? Then you'll want to tune to this week's episode.

Today, I’m joined by Navy spouse Bryce Langley, who’s sharing some great thoughts and wisdom about military spouse life, military marriage, tips for getting through deployments, the importance of mentorship, and so much more. (Along with some ways that spouses’ groups can better reach out to male military spouses!)

Bryce and his wife Tracy had been married nearly a decade when she decided to go into the Navy. As you’ll hear, Bryce came to military spouse life very reluctantly! He’d been raised near Fort Bragg, NC, and saw firsthand the effects military life can have on families, and he was not quite ready to sign up for that.

They’ve now been married over 13 years, and you’ll hear about how Bryce came to not only accept military life, but embrace it. He talks about how he decided to support Tracy’s career as well as connect with other military spouses through the Family Readiness Group. He’s completely honest about the journey so far, and if you’re struggling too, I think you’ll be so encouraged by his experiences!

CLICK HERE FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED AND THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse
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Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: November 2, 2020

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Support for Parents of Military Members - Ep. 52

This episode is for parents of military members. If you’re not one of those, I think you still might find some helpful resources, and at the least you can pass it on to your OWN parents and in-laws.

My husband had served on active duty for over 25 years when our oldest son announced that he’d decided to join the military, too. It came as a bit of a shock to his father and me, as he'd always discussed other career plans before that time.

So whether you’re a military-spouse-turned-parent-of-military-member like me or you’re just looking for information to help you in this new world of being a military parent, I’m sharing some things I’ve learned over the past few years, along with some suggested resources.

Next, stay tuned as I share the brand new single release “God And Country” from country music recording artist and former U.S. Army intelligence Sergeant, Jenny Leigh Miller, which will be available on all digital retail and streaming outlets on Friday, November 6, 2020. Reflecting on her decision to join the military at the age of 18, the emotional track chronicles Miller’s early life chapters and her calling to serve God and her country.

Jenny joins me to discuss the story behind the song, some of her thoughts about military service, along with her parent’s reaction to her decision to go into the military right after her high school graduation. She also has a message for those with deployed loved ones!

Click here for show notes and resources mentioned on this episode.

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse
Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram
Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: October 26, 2020

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Homeschooling and Military Life - Ep. 51

On this episode, I’m sharing about our homeschooling journey, and how it fit in with military life!

Let’s talk about some of the common fears and misconceptions, and some of my favorite resources and tips from over 20 years as a homeschooling mom.

We homeschooled our four now grown children, who’ve all gone on to college and careers. I embraced a hands-on and literature-based method of learning and education, and combining kids in studies where possible. It was also important to us to set our kids up for success and independence.

Our military family homeschooled all four of our now grown children. Our oldest child moved 3 times during his high school years, and our youngest moved so often that staying in one place for 2 years seemed like a long time.

With all the changes and challenges of military life, their education was one of the constants! One benefit that came out of our decision to homeschool was the flexibility to PCS at any time without disrupting their education.

Visit this episode's sponsor, Magical Order of Brave Knights, and use coupon code SIRWILLIAM for a 15% discount.

Resources mentioned and show notes for this episode.

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse
Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram
Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: October 19, 2020

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Find Your Military Community in the Great Outdoors - Ep. 50

Military spouses, we’ve all been there. We roll into a new duty station, the dust settles after the travels and unpacking, and we find ourselves struggling to make connections.

One company that is trying to make a difference is Military Wild, an outdoor military community whose goal it is to connect military families with each other as they pursue outdoor adventures together! Today, I’m so excited to be speaking with Kailey Brown, co-founder and the current Vice President, who says that, even if you don't feel like an athletic person, throw on your tennis shoes, connect with Military Wild, and find some new friends!

Visit this episode's sponsor, Magical Order of Brave Knights, and use coupon code SIRWILLIAM for a 15% discount.

Find resources mentioned and the show notes here.

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Find resources mentioned and show notes here.

Published on: October 12, 2020

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Who Are You Listening To? Ep. 49

On this bonus episode, I'm sharing a little bit of the story behind Milspouse Matters, why I started it, and my heart about it all.

We're also discussing who or what you're allowing to speak into your life and who you're looking to for guidance in your military spouse journey! Is what you're hearing uplifting and positive? Is it realistic? Is it putting pressure on you that you don't need?

Here's a reminder for you today--the loudest voices, whether on social media or in real life, are not always the most accurate or wise sources.

If this episode encourages you, please leave a 5-star rating and review!

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

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Click here to learn more about First Command.

Published on: October 7, 2020

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Help for Tackling Financial Challenges During COVID-19 with Mark Steffe - Ep. 48

Have you lost your job or been furloughed during the pandemic? Facing financial difficulties due to PCS move delays or extra expenses? This episode is for you!

I’m talking to Mark Steffe, CEO and President of First Command, and he’s sharing some great information about what First Command offers military families, along with some tips and advice for military families facing financial challenges during the pandemic, quarantine, and job furloughs, as well as some ideas for preparing before a financial challenge.

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Published on: October 5, 2020

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Back to School for Military Kids During COVID-19 - Ep. 47

On this episode, I’m talking to Stacy Allsbrook-Huisman, and Amanda Trimillos, who are the co-authors of Seasons of My Military Student: Practical Ideas for Parents and Teachers.

You might remember Stacy and Amanda from Milspouse Matters episode 37, Easing Transitions for Military Kids, and they were so gracious to come back again and talk about helping our military kids through all the changes we’re going through right now. 2020 is such a crazy time and constantly changing, but one thing we know is that the pandemic and ensuing quarantines are impacting our military kids’ education. Whether you’ve just moved, are dealing with virtual schooling while you also work from home, doing a hybrid school where your kids are attending part time, or something else—let’s talk about getting through this time and setting military kids up for success!

They’ve both also recently gone through a PCS move and have school-aged children of their own, so they are right there with you, figuring this all out.

SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE BLUE STAR FAMILIES ANNUAL MILITARY FAMILY LIFESTYLE SURVEY

Published on: September 28, 2020

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Let Your Voice Be Heard with the Blue Star Families Military Family Lifestyle Survey - Ep. 46

Hello everyone! On this special bonus episode, I’m so glad to be talking to Jessica Strong, an Army spouse, mom of three, and the Co-Director of Applied Research at Blue Star Families.

Blue Star Families was founded by military spouses in 2009 to empower military families to thrive as they serve. Their groundbreaking research and their annual Military Family Lifestyle Survey are raising the nation's awareness of the unique challenges of military family life.

Jessica shares some insights on what past surveys have revealed, how this year’s survey looks different in light of COVID-19 concerns, as well as their push to get the widest sampling possible. The survey is the largest gauge of the challenges active-duty and veteran members and their families are facing each year, and it’s crucial to have high participation in order to drive solutions. This year, they’re especially encouraging families of color to participate in order to have the most diverse representation possible.

The 11th annual Military Family Lifestyle Survey (aMFLS) was launched on September 8th, 2020. For six weeks, members, families, and veterans of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Reserves are encouraged to participate in the most comprehensive survey that highlights and analyzes the experiences and challenges facing military families today across the country. The survey closes on October 16, so please don't wait to voice your opinion and share your story! As Jessica says,

"Take the survey. People are listening. And the people who are making changes are listening and looking for this. If you have something to say, this is where to say it. Don’t say it in a Facebook comment, because it won’t get where it needs to go. Say it in the survey."

SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

CLICK HERE FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Published on: September 24, 2020

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Ideas for Self-Care During Quarantine and Listener Questions - Ep. 45

On this episode, I’m answering your questions! We’re talking about the isolation felt living overseas, dealing with deployment…and you can find out what my favorite duty station was and maybe something you don’t know about me. Keep the questions coming!

Next, I’m joined by recurring guest and veteran Army spouse Tara Howes, and we discuss some realistic ideas for self care for military spouses during this time of quarantine. With everyone at home, working from home, schooling kids at home, it may seem counter intuitive to think you can take a break! Listen in for some humor and realistic ideas.

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

CLICK HERE FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THIS EPISODE

Published on: September 21, 2020

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Where Do We Go From Here? A Military Spouse Discussion on Racism and Resources - Ep. 44

On this episode, I'm joined by Jennifer Brantley of More Than a Mrs. and The DiscardIt podcast to talk about “Where do we go from here?” as we all figure out how to move beyond hashtags and social media posts, in hopes of making an actual difference and combat racism in our corners of the world.

I'm so thankful for her insight and willingness to discuss this important topic. Her wisdom and kindness shine through in how she relates to others, and I think you'll find some great advice and resources.

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

CLICK HERE FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE.

Published on: July 21, 2020

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Living in Military Housing and PCS Househunting Tips - Ep. 43

On this episode, we’re talking all about relocation and househunting after PCS, with some expert tips from Sharon Gran of MilitaryByOwner Advertising, Inc.

I also share a few thoughts about living in military housing, including making the decision, pros and cons, and how to be a good neighbor when living in base housing.

I’ve been working for MilitaryByOwner for over 5 years now as their Content Editor for all the resources, blogs, and articles they provide for military families, and I know how much they love and support the military community, so I just knew Sharon would be a great fit to share her expertise on military relocation!

I also want to say THANK you for listening, and for all your support and notes over the past almost 2 years of this podcast! YOU are the reason I do what I do!

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Click here for resources mentioned in this episode.

Published on: July 6, 2020

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Prep for PCS with These Expert Moving Tips- Ep. 42

One thing that's usually certain about military life is that you will move at some point! Today, I have SO much information to share with you, and I really hope you will get something out of it, whether it’s your first move or tenth!

Having been through 13 moves as a military family, I'm sharing practical tips for your PCS move, sprinkled with some funny stories and wise advice from other military spouses and listeners.

We’re talking about prepping for a move, moving with kids of all ages, moving with pets, moving overseas, and even some thoughts about when it seems like all your friends are moving but you’re stuck.

Ultimate PCS Move Resource List (all links and resources mentioned in this episode plus a few extras!)

Timestamps:

7:40 PCS Terms and Acronyms to Know/General PCS Tips to Keep You Sane!
14:35 Your First PCS or a PCS Refresher
15:12 Things to Do Before the Movers Arrive or Packing Out
18:16 Military Spouse “Pro Gear”
19:20 Researching Before Your Move (neighborhoods, schools, etc)
23:10 Tips for Moving Day
30:45 Moving with Kids
34:40 Moving In Day
38:00 Overseas Move
42:00 Tips for Helping Kids Through a Move
45:45 Moving with Pets
49:48 When You’re Not Moving, But All Your Friends Are

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

See the full show notes and resources mentioned here.

Published on: June 15, 2020

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Difficult Conversations & How to Be an Ally to Our Black Friends - Ep. 41

Difficult Conversations—Are you having them?

Today’s episode is a bit shorter and different than originally intended. In light of what’s been going on in our country the past couple of weeks, I just couldn't continue with it as if things were normal.

With the killing of George Floyd on May 25 at the hands of a police officer while other police looked on, and the resulting protests and riots, the topics of racism and race relations are at the forefront of everyone’s mind and all over social media and in our daily conversations. What happened was evil. There’s no way around it.

I’ve wondered what to say, if I’ll say it wrong, and how to even approach this. So please bear with me. I’ve been talking to some of my black friends both in real life and online, and decided I wanted to address this on the podcast, but please know that I am treading lightly and if I make a misstep or say something not quite the right way, it is on me.

A lot of us are having some difficult conversations we’ve never had before. It’s easier sometimes to just leave it alone, to not talk about such hard things. Racism. Injustice. Maybe our own part in it.

To my black friends….I see you. I hear you. I am sorry if I have failed you in the past. But it is not your responsibility to deal with my guilt or make me feel better about this.

So on this episode, I want to talk to those of you who are trying to become good allies to our black friends, family members, and the greater community. I am here and I am trying. But it is not up to our black friends to hold our hands, educate us, or make us feel better. They’re exhausted. They’re tired. They’re tired of fighting.

It’s ok to be learning. It’s ok to change your mind about something you may have always believed and now realize you had it wrong. It’s ok to realize maybe you haven’t done things well in the past and try to do better. We have to do better.

On this episode, I’m going to share some advice I’ve been given over the past few days, then point you to some resources if you’re looking to learn more, grow more, and help your kids as they grow up.

Posting on social media is valid, expressing your support online is valid, talking is valid, but where do we go from here? We can’t stop fighting racism because it stops trending.

I hope you’ll listen, join the discussion, and find some resources and practical ways you can help.

Published on: June 4, 2020

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Lessons to Remember on Memorial Day - Ep. 40

This episode is a special remembrance for Memorial Day. I’m sharing a little bit of the history of Memorial Day (once called Decoration Day), along with some excerpts from my upcoming book. This week, let’s remember the fallen, along with their families who must carry on without them.

How do we honor those who’ve sacrificed their lives for our country? How do we truly live and respect what they gave up? Join me for this short episode and take a moment to remember.

SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Click here for resources mentioned in this episode.

Published on: May 24, 2020

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Coping with Military Life Through Humor and Writing - Ep. 39

Lisa Molinari describes herself as a “garden variety military spouse” who was never nominated for Military Spouse of the Year. Yet, through decades of military life, she looked for the humor inherent in hard and even absurd circumstances and discovered her own unique ways of coping with the challenges that are common to us all: worries about our kids, living far from family, feeling inadequate around other spouses…you get it! She found that her ability to laugh and process her experiences through writing became her outlet.

You’re going to love Lisa’s warm, practical humor and the gentle reminder to laugh and not take ourselves too seriously. I had so much fun talking to her! I hope you’ll be inspired to give yourself permission to take time for yourself and figure out how you best cope with life as a military spouse. As Lisa says,

“Everyone has a good story to tell.”

Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive.

Want to purchase multiple copies of Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse?

Contact Jen on her site for information and pricing.

Published on: May 10, 2020

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Money Saving Tips for Military Families - Ep. 38

On this episode, I’m talking to Mark Steffe from First Command, who’s sharing some very practical financial and money-saving tips for military families. We can all use some help with our budgets, right? He talks about ways to stay on track with your financial goals, even during this historic time of job losses and furloughs due to the coronavirus pandemic.

We also discuss how to handle your finances if you happen to have extra income, such as a military Cost of Living Allowance, special duty pay...or even a bonus or stimulus check! One message I hope you come away with is that, whether your finances are in a mess or you're just looking to make some tweaks to your budget, that there are resources to help you! You don't have to figure it out alone.

Military spouses and veterans, you might be interested to know that First Command is hiring--no experience necessary, and it's a portable career opportunity! Learn more at First Command careers and let them know you heard about it here!

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED

Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive.

Published on: April 26, 2020

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Easing Transitions for Military Kids - Ep. 37

On this episode, I’m talking to Stacy Huisman and Amanda Trimillos, coauthors of the book, Seasons of My Military Student. It was so fun to hear how they came together to write this important book that’s so helpful for military families and teachers alike.

They share about that process and then give some great advice about how we can help our military kids through the transitions that go along with changing schools, settling into new routines, and the disruptions these students regularly face with military life. Then we’re talking about some fun and unique ways we can recognize military kids during this unprecedented time of closures and quarantine in the Month of the Military Child.

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED

Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive.

Want to purchase multiple copies of Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse? Contact Jen on her site for information and pricing.

Published on: April 19, 2020

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Temporary Homeschooling During the Coronavirus Quarantine - Ep. 36

If you suddenly find yourself in charge of supervising your kids' schooling due to the coronavirus pandemic, this episode is for you!

This week, Jen talks to Claire Wood, who is both a teacher and a homeschooling mom. Claire shares some great tips about 'temporary schooling from home,' including managing expectations, how to stay flexible while complying with what your school requires, keeping rhythms vs. worrying about tight schedules, tips to keep kids motivated, boredom busters, and so much more!

Whether you're homeschooling solo, trying to manage work from home along with home education, you'll find tips to make the days easier. Biggest reminder: this is not a normal time, so don't be so hard on yourself! We also talk about homeschooling while your military member is deployed or not available, and the importance of finding in-real-life support.

Click here for resources mentioned in this show, including Claire's free download, "10 Tips for Peaceful Temporary Homeschooling."

Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive.

Want to purchase multiple copies of Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse? Contact Jen on her site for information and pricing.

Published on: April 5, 2020

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Help and Info for Military Families During the Coronavirus Pandemic - Ep. 35

Coronavirus Info for Military Families On this episode, Jen shares encouragement and resources for U.S. military families as we navigate the “new normal” of life in the Coronavirus pandemic.

Maybe your PCS move is on hold, the military member has been called up or is on extra duty, you’re suddenly working from home (or you’re out of work), your kids are out of school and it's up to you to keep them on task at home. Life has surely changed in many ways.

Where can you find accurate information during this time? I’ve put together an easy list of official government and DOD resources for you.

My biggest reminder? Give yourself some grace! And, now more than ever, let’s extend grace and flexibility to each other.

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive.

Want to purchase multiple copies of Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse? Contact Jen on her site for information and pricing.

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram.

Published on: March 28, 2020

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Preparing for Deployment and Reintegration - Ep. 34

Have you dealt with the emotional build up leading up to deployment? Have you wondered why the service member's homecoming isn't like what you see on TV or the movies?

Maybe you're struggling, and you think you're the only one.

Then take a listen to this discussion with experienced military wife Terri Laurent, who's been through multiple deployments with her husband. (This is part two of our talk--listen to part one on Episode 31, all about mentoring).

On this episode, we talk about preparing your heart and marriage for deployment, as well as some tips for reintegration--that time period after the service member returns home from a long separation/deployment.

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE.

Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive.

Want to purchase multiple copies of Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse? Contact Jen on her site for information and pricing.

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Published on: March 8, 2020

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Military Love Stories: The Way We Met - Ep. 33

Who doesn’t love a good love story? Recently, I put a callout on social media for military spouses to tell the stories of how they met their loves, and boy, did you come through!

On this episode, you’ll hear from other spouses in their own words about how they met, and even some well-earned perspective on how to strengthen your own military marriage. From blind dates to chance meetings to online connections and more, you’ll love hearing the romantic and even funny stories of how the spark of love first began. This is a feel-good episode, so consider this your Happy Valentine’s Day from me to you!

CLICK HERE FOR THE SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: February 12, 2020

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Deployment Resources for Your Military Family - Episode 32

This week’s episode is all about deployment resources and support! Whether you’re facing your first deployment as a military spouse or a recent rapid deployment, I’m hoping you’ll find some new ideas and support here. I’m sharing some of my favorites, as well as tips and resources from listeners.

Wherever in the world this finds you, please know that my heart is with you as you face deployment, and I hope these resources can help you during this challenging time.

Click here for resources mentioned in this episode.

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Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.

Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: January 29, 2020

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Finding a Mentor, Being a Mentor - Episode 31

Military Spouse Mentor As you walk through military life, who do you look up to? How do you find someone who can help you navigate the nuances of the military world, answer questions, or be a support?

Finding a trusted mentor can be so important. And then, as you get more experienced, passing that knowledge on is so needed! On this episode, Jen talks with guest Terri Laurent about the qualities that make a good role model and friend. Terri shares stories from her nearly 3 decades of military spouse life, including what she did right and even what didn’t go so well! She also talks about managing expectations and the importance of taking a leap to form relationships. Terri is a true gem for the military spouse world, and I think you’ll enjoy hearing her perspective…and I hope inspired to reach out and widen your own circle! Take her wise advice.

Click here for resources mentioned in this episode.

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.

Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

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Published on: January 8, 2020

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When You Feel Alone - Episode 30

When You Feel Alone Life as a military spouse can be so amazing and exciting, but also isolating at times. What do you do when you just feel…alone? It can appear that everyone else has it together, but guess what? They don’t, either!

One of the biggest themes of my military spouse life has been lack of control. Just when I think I've settled in and figured things out, everything changes. Maybe you relate! Whether you’ve recently moved, your spouse is deployed, or you’re going through some other challenge, living ‘in the pause’ can be frustrating. But it can also be a time of growth.

On this episode, we're talking about those relatable feelings, along with strategies to move forward. Most of all, be reminded that you are not alone!

Click here for resources mentioned in this episode.

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram!

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.

Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

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Published on: October 21, 2019

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How to Make Friends as a Military Spouse - Episode 29

How to Make Friends as a Military Spouse

The traditional PCS season is winding down, so let’s talk about making friends! Whether you’ve just moved or you’re the one left behind, getting yourself out there and connecting can feel challenging.

On this episode, I’m joined by Tara Howes (who was the first guest on the podcast on Episode 1!) and between us, we share over 50 years of experience at navigating the military spouse world (yes, 50, that’s not a typo!). We’re longtime friends, and we keep the conversation comfortable and light.

Listen in as we discuss the phases of friendship and ideas for finding friends, whether you’re a brand new spouse or have been at this a while. We’ll also talk about ways to connect with others if you’re childless, have small children, working/not working, or your kids are older. We cover it all!

Come along for a laugh and some very practical tips. We’re not just complaining about the problem—we’re giving you some strategies to use, whether you naturally make friends or are more introverted.

Click here for resources mentioned in this episode.

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram!

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.

Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group

Published on: October 2, 2019

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Self-Care and Wellness for Military Spouses - Episode 28

Ashley Gammon As military women and wives, our own health can sometimes take the back burner, especially in light of other pressing issues, like an impending PCS or deployment. This is your reminder that you're important, too!

Join Jen as she talks to Ashley Gammon about giving ourselves permission to take time to refuel, ask for help, and find ways to incorporate self care, even if you're a busy mom with lots of little ones.

Ashley has a background in health and is a certified personal trainer, MUTU Pro, and M.O.M.S. (Military Outreach Mutu System) Community manager. This program promotes pelvic floor and core health for women in pre and postpartum stages of life, and we're talking about what's not normal when it comes to our bodies and ways to better care for ourselves.

As Ashley reminds us, "You matter. You're important."

Find out more about Ashley, the resources mentioned, and her discount code for the MUTU system in this episode's show notes.

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram!

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.

Find out more about Stacy and resources mentioned in this episode's show notes.

Vote for Jen and the Milspouse Matters podcast for the Military & Veteran Community (MVC) Choice Awards! I've been nominated in the Social Media Influencer category. Voting is open until August 6, 2019.

Published on: June 14, 2019

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The Importance of Military Spouse Friendships - Episode 27

This week, we’re talking about the importance of military friendships! If you don’t know Stacy Taylor, then hang on, because you’ll grow to love her! You may be familiar with this longtime Army spouse and her family from hearing the viral story of how the military spouse community rallied around and helped throw her Marine Corps son’s wedding at Fort Hood after he was displaced by Hurricane Florence in 2018.

Stacy talks about the importance of friendships and faith through her years of being a military spouse. She’s also honest about her transition from being active duty herself to civilian life, and even some of the misconceptions she had about military spouses, and then how she came to embrace the life.

Want to connect? Follow Milspouse Matters on Instagram!

Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse.