Lifegiver- A Military & First Responder Family Podcast

Bree Carroll is an engineer using her skills as an event coordinator and wedding planner. When Bree saw some marriages around her fail mostly due to a lack of resources to help them get through the challenges they faced.  The resources were too hard to find. Not complied. suicides As a person of action she made the leap from spectator on the sideline to influencer, making it her mission to connect those hurting to those who have the ability to help.One of Bree's passions is wedding planning so watching marriages fall apart is counter to her very existence.  Read more...  Bree Carroll's resources: Hearts and Stripes Podcast Meet Bree Other resources mentioned: Come Home Project    

Join us as we take a moment to assess how we as service families are doing and what we can do to influence the change we need in our own lives. The Blue Star Families survey results were recently released and, not surprisingly, it was noted that we are struggling in several key areas. Listen in as Corie unpacks these and provides tips on how to ask for what you need. If you are a spouse and feel relegated to the back burner, we understand. We know that it's often where we have to go... mission first. However, you can't stay there indefinitely. Your marriage can't stay on the back burner indefinitely. In this episode Corie talks about what to do if you are struggling with the way things are. As always, we at Lifegiver strive to encourage you give your spouse the benefit of the doubt (regardless of whether he or she is the serving or supporting spouse). Assume your spouse is trying their best, and in light of that, assume that they want what's best for you. Being assertive and asking for what you need is absolutely okay and your spouse will probably be glad not to have to read your mind. Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

Matt and I do our first live streaming episode where we talk about the impact of the virus on our community.  We specifically talk about how to handle the tension of being quarantined in your home 24/7 with your spouse and children. For our community, couples are often not used to being around each other all the time or as FR families are now facing long hours with an invisible enemy. Listen in for tips to navigate your conversations.  Here are a couple of resources we mention:     Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

Matt interviews two US Army Chaplains about how they are creatively sustaining community and care using social media and other platforms.  With the introduction of the Coronavirus, ministry teams and churches are looking to find new ways to care for each other, embrace the newest generations, and connect online rather than face to face.

To the surprise of, well, everyone... kids who were in public schools are now at home facing a homeschool-like situation.  Parents are now scrambling trying to balance remote work, parenting, quarantines, and now overseeing their child's education.  If you are feeling overwhelmed, Jennifer Hamrick has words of encouragement for you. You can love your child and be a fantastic parent and still be very unhappy with this new situation.  Listen in as Jennifer shares great tips for how to manage a house full of kids and still have time for you.

Dr. Kendra Lowe knows the challenges service members face as she is a Veteran herself. When she switched to the civilian life Dr. Kendra was surprised to note that she experienced just as much stress as a spouse as she experienced while in the service.  "The concepts and perspectives derived from Dr. Lowe’s decade-long research, aims to provide command teams with an operational approach to combat the mission degrading effects of military spouse stress."  There is stress for spouse and it's significant. We know that. But what now? Her book answers that question.  Dr. Kendra has created a resource that walks the reader through 8 weeks of changing their thought processes. Her website states: This comprehensive and invaluable tool will help you accept the unique nature of military life, anticipate and persevere in the face of social-emotional setbacks, practice effective coping strategies, and learn to thrive on to new possibilities. Read more: Resources: Dr. Kendra's website Her book titled Wake Up, Kick Ass, Repeat: A Guide to Self Perseverance Within the Military Spouse Life Cycle  Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

Join Matt and Corie Weathers for a special "Late Night with Lifegiver"- an impromptu sit down after watching "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" with Tom Hanks.   This movie was so touching, Matt and Corie had to sit down to talk about it.  Other things mentioned:Benjamin Zander Tedtalk: "The Transformative Power of Classical Music" Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

The world looks a whole lot different lately.  COVID-19 has the entire world on lockdown (or so it feels).  We are all doing our part to stay at home, some of you have PCS and deployment orders that are delayed.  Regardless of your situation, this has a great impact on your marriage.  You might be spending more time with your spouse than ever before and that can definitely cause tension.  In this episode, Matt and I share our conversation with the USO during their Coffee Connections Live event.  We answered questions about communication, growth in your marriage, holding each other accountable, as well as how to help your spouse open up. If you are looking for more support, check out the USO for not only ways to give back, but for how they are also looking to invest in your overall wellbeing with their programming for spouses! Here are a few of the resources mentioned:      Favorite Resources: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10Kl4WnHjnhUerU1cOc58nb3tHF7Ru8Tm/view?usp=sharing Sacred Spaces: https://www.life-giver.org/sacred-spaces/ Forgiveness: https://www.life-giver.org/forgiveness-in-affair-recovery-gods-design-in-marriage/

When you are a parent, you will do anything for your child(ren).  As a military family that moves a lot, a lot of thought and stress goes into making sure your child has everything they need to succeed.  Especially when you volunteered for this lifestyle and they were born into it.  In this episode, I invite Becky Porter, CEO of Military Child Education Coalition to share what they are doing to make all of this easier for military parents and educators.  If you are a first responder family, this episode is still for you!  Listen in to the vast resources that MCEC is offering that everyone can benefit from.   Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

It is PCS (Permanent Change of Station) Season and if you listened to season 4 of Lifegiver, you know I struggle when it is time to uproot!  MILLIE has been growing over the years in their efforts to make it easier for you to transition, and I need a whole lot of that!  In this episode, Kellie Artis joins me to share not only how MILLIE can connect you to other service families in your new location, but how you can be fully prepared in finding housing, handling logistics, and more.  We even talk about the emotional and psychological impact of starting over.  Don't miss this one! For more on MILLIE: check out their website, Facebook group, and all their toolkits to help you in the process!   Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

Loss can be a terribly difficult thing to talk about- especially when we exist in a lifestyle where it is both a fear and reality. We need to be able to talk about it and learn from those who have gone through it and found happiness again.  In this Memorial Day special, Mary-Ann Rubado Kline joins the podcast to share the loss of her first husband, Charlie, during their first deployment while stationed in Colorado. She is now married to Jeremiah, a veteran and first responder. I ask her tough questions about what it is like to love again, how Jeremiah allows space for the time she lived with Charlie, and more. It is important to hear the stories of those who have gone through great pain. It acknowledges a Sacred Space that they lived through and were changed by. Even though this may be difficult for some of you to hear, I hope you will listen.  There are so many wonderful truths and so much wisdom found in my interview with her. I have no doubt you will be encouraged and inspired to live and love more fully. Thank you Mary-Anne for sharing your heart and being so vulnerable with us! Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

My good friend Cierra joins the podcast to talk about her experiences as a National Guard spouse.  We so often hear about the challenges of National Guard families- that they don't have access to the programming active duty families have and that living in the civilian community can be isolating. So in this interview, Cierra shares her experience of deployment while living in the civilian community and the challenges National Guard life brings into their marriage.  National Guard and Reserves are now deploying just as much as active duty and Cierra gives fantastic tips on how she has learned to manage the home, school, and work while also building a connected marriage.   Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

I have been a long time fan of Reboot Recovery- "REBOOT helps people overcome trauma through faith-based programs. Our courses, training and online community are open to anyone connected to military or first responders. If the same old therapy or medication has left you feeling hopeless, you've come to the right place. At REBOOT, we’re overcoming trauma together and can't wait for you to join us." In this episode, Bryan Flanery a veteran who struggles with TBI, shares his story of trauma, faith, and how the genuine relationships of those behind Reboot changed his life.  You will be changed by this episode.  Contact Reboot for more on how you can get involved, find a small group and get the support you need as a military or first responder couple. Hear more of Bryan's story here: https://neveralonemilitary.com/stories/view/bryan-flanery  Interested in subscribing to the Lifegiver Newsletter? Subscribers get discounts on their first session with Corie and find more information on building a community of Lifegivers. Click here to subscribe.  Want to give back?  Send a monthly cup of coffee to keep us going by being a supporter on our patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/lifegiver

I couldn't be more excited to have Sarah back with me for another episode of the podcast.  Sarah joined me last season for the round table discussion and again on our faith based episode of Where is God in the Dark Places. Sarah is married to a SWAT officer and she shares some of what she wishes she would have known in her early days as a newly married LEO wife. Any job can "change you" and the service profession can definitely have an impact on a person's way of handling life, kids, other people, and even our marriage.  But in this conversation, Sarah shares how she has learned to embrace some of those changes as strengths and which have become an area she and her husband can work around or talk through if needed.   If you are interested in strengths coaching, please make an appointment at www.corieweathers.com  Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more?  Click here. Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon. Music by Rudy Vaughn  

Are you struggling with making a decision about whether your kids should go back to school with COVID numbers still climbing?  This is possibly one of the most stressful decisions our culture of parents have ever had to make. If your kids have been in private or public school settings pre-COVID, how do you decide whether they go back when there are reports of children dying?  In this Lifegiver LIVE, we talk about the questions I’m hearing in my sessions as well as questions you’ve submitted.  We talk about  How to talk with your kids about this decision  Their opinions about COVID How schools are shifting standards How to calm your anxiety about this decision If you are interested in strengths coaching, please make an appointment at www.corieweathers.com  Find resources (including the Lifegiver Newsletter) for your service marriage at www.life-giver.org Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more?  Click here. Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon. Music by Rudy Vaughn

What kind of relationship do you have with the public school system?  Does it give you anxiety?  Do you feel like you are always trying to advocate for your child- especially if you relocate a lot?  What if we could all work together (better) just a little bit more? What if (like any other relationship) we listened more and built a relationship of understanding? I invited Dr. Keith Mispagel, superintendent of Fort Leavenworth School District 207 to the podcast. He has a doctorate in military child transition and studied what kids need to be resilient and thrive academically.  Even more, his district transitions almost 1,200 new military families every summer for the Command and General Staff College that teaches some of our military's most competitive officers  To put it plainly, he is a rockstar leading his staff in welcoming and helping children of all ages transition only to do it all again the next year.  I can honestly say it was the best year ever for my kids (who were weary of transition as it was).  He is now teaching other districts how to build better relationships with military parents and kids. Listen in as we talk about the school-parent relationship and what the public schools are going through to make the next year a safer one for our kids.   If you are interested in strengths coaching, please make an appointment at www.corieweathers.com  Find resources (including the Lifegiver Newsletter) for your service marriage at www.life-giver.org Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more?  Click here. Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon. Music by Rudy Vaughn

“Few things are as difficult for parents as watching their kids struggle. It's especially hard not knowing how to help them!” Now more than ever, mental health and behavioral issues are climbing which can be pretty scary as a parent. Many military and first responder families take the leap to get help from their child only to have to move or start over.  Do you ever feel like you are wasting precious time waiting for all of them to communicate and start making progress? How many times has your child acted out on a weekend and you wish the professional could have seen it themselves but they aren’t open until Monday?  Meet Tommy Black. He’s a clinician that teamed up with some other really cool professionals that made an app to get your child’s wellness back into your hands again. ESTEEM is an app that helps parents track their child’s emotional and behavioral challenges.  Complete with resources, tracking software, and more, you can have complete control of your child’s healthcare at your fingertips.  Receive automated goals that encourage progress. Celebrate small wins that add up to big improvements! ESTEEM also makes it super easy to have teachers, counselors, and any other other professionals share important information about how your child is doing in one place so you can make the best decision for your child. Join us as we talk about why he created the app as well as some really encouraging words about how you can parent through the COVID crisis.  You will love this interview!   Download the ESTEEM App today: https://www.chooseesteem.com/   If you are interested in strengths coaching, please make an appointment at www.corieweathers.com. Find resources (including the Lifegiver Newsletter) for your service marriage at www.life-giver.org Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more? Click here. Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon. Music by Rudy Vaughn

Sleep issues and separation anxiety are a real thing for so many parents.  With today's anxiety and fear during COVID and back to school criteria, children's fears can manifest at night leaving you frustrated, exhausted and hopeless. Without a good night's sleep, you and your children will struggle to function.  In this episode, I talk with Colleen, a dedicated spouse of a veteran and mom of three boys with a master’s degree in psychology. After years of sleep deprivation and exhaustion with her own son, Colleen was inspired to write her first book about a magical knight- a bear that was determined to protect children from their fears. She wanted to help other moms and young children which led to the creation of Sir William the Brave Knight.  Listen in as she shares her story, hope for yours and some ways you can find your own peace and courage to help your children whatever they might be facing. If you would like to find out more or order your own Sir William the Brave Knight: https://magicalorderofbraveknights.com If you are interested in strengths coaching, please make an appointment at www.corieweathers.com. Find resources (including the Lifegiver Newsletter) for your service marriage at www.life-giver.org Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more? Click here. Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon. Music by Rudy Vaughn

Derek Abbey, PhD is a retired Marine and CEO of Project Recover joins me for a fascinating interview where we talk about the importance of leaving a legacy and how Project Recover is healing families’ stories.  Project Recover, an international nonprofit that uses the latest in science, technology and archival research, with a mission to find and repatriate the remains of fallen American troops. Derek Abbey says there are 82,000 Americans in uniform missing in the world today. Around 7,000 of those are from the Korean War, with another 1,600 missing from Vietnam and Southeast Asia. A staggering 72,000 are missing from World War II, a conflict in which sixteen million Americans served or about 12% of the population. Here is a little of what we cover:How his 23 years of military service, including his deployments to Iraq and the Far East as a fighter pilot, saved his own life and have influenced him to support the mission of finding and returning fallen service members home. Derek holds more combat hours than hours in peaceful skies, and also served with the Marine Raiders in Afghanistan.WWII American troop discovery stories and first-hand insights on the overall recovery experienceHow families can be impacted by loss for generations after a war has endedExamples of how Project Recover leverages technology and partnerships with University of Delaware and Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego in an attempt to find MIA soldiersHow Derek’s values centered approach guides his professional and personal life Find resources for your service marriage at www.life-giver.orgInterested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more? Click here.Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon.Music by Rudy Vaughn

Derek Abbey, PhD joins me again!  I enjoyed my last conversation so much with Derek, I invited him back to share his research on transitioning into the veteran space. Derek says that there are important stages we should all go through in order to help us mature as well-functioning adults. The military sets the perfect conditions by providing almost everything we need as adults. It provides community, a way to progress through rank and accomplishment, and makes many of our decisions for us.    Although the military “saved his life”, Derek shares what he has learned from helping veterans take the next big step in their lives in higher education and helping veterans take the next big step in their lives. The result was a fascinating conversation on what we all need to do to evolve to a better version of ourselves.    Derek Abbey, PhD is a retired Marine and CEO of  Project Recover.   Find resources for your service marriage at www.life-giver.org Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more? Click here. Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon. Music by Rudy Vaughn

What if I told you I found the cure for the common cough?  Well, it actually wasn’t me, but after our son fought an “Asthmatic cough” for four years we finally came across Dr. Weinberger and the “Habit Cough”.  Joining me for this episode is Dennis Buettner, a Cough Research Director for Dr. Miles Weinberger, MD. and a veteran that works with NASA. Dennis’s daughter Bethany went through the same thing our son did- coughing up to 5,000 times a day with no answers. Like many of you out there who are trying to find answers, both of our families went through endless doctors, diagnoses, and medications before doctors finally threw up their hands with nothing left to offer.    Dennis finally stumbled on some research about a pulmonologist who found the cure for the cough through suggestive therapy- teaching kids to be attentive to their bodies and stopping the cough in as little as 10 minutes! Bethany was able to stop her cough, so was our son, and now Dennis is spreading the word about how if you or someone you know can answer one question of his- you can stop the cough too.   Seriously, Dr. Weinberger has changed our lives. More importantly, he gave my son back his. For more on Dr. Weinberger and the Habit Cough: https://www.habitcough.com/ Find resources for your service marriage at www.life-giver.org Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more? Click here. Interested in giving back?  Donate a couple of dollars to the podcast at Patreon. Music by Rudy Vaughn

How do you decide when to hold steadfast and persevere?  When to walk away?  When to run away?  Life is a gamble, a risk.  We do everything we can to make good, right decisions with what we have in the moment.  Yet the hardest thing to do is walking away and saying "no".  It feels like too big of a risk.  Yet, this year has gotten too big for all of us- asking us to make a choice.  You can't do it all and neither can I. Listen in for updates on how 2020 affected me and what I am doing with the cards I have in hand.   Interested in Joining Fight Club- A Virtual Support Group for Military & First Responder Spouses?  Starts Jan 11, 2021 Apply here: https://forms.gle/RCf8jYnq5bdkEZiHA The Gambler, by Kenny Rogers On a warm summer's eveningOn a train bound for nowhereI met up with the gamblerWe were both too tired to sleepSo we took turns a-starin'Out the window at the darknessThe boredom overtook usAnd he began to speak He said, "Son, I've made a lifeOut of readin' people's facesKnowin' what the cards wereBy the way they held their eyesSo if you don't mind my sayin'I can see you're out of acesFor a taste of your whiskeyI'll give you some advice" So I handed him my bottleAnd he drank down my last swallowThen he bummed a cigaretteAnd asked me for a lightAnd the night got deathly quietAnd his face lost all expressionSaid, "If you're gonna play the game, boyYou gotta learn to play it right You've got to know when to hold 'emKnow when to fold 'emKnow when to walk awayAnd know when to runYou never count your moneyWhen you're sittin' at the tableThere'll be time enough for countin'When the dealin's done Every gambler knowsThat the secret to survivin'Is knowin' what to throw awayAnd knowin' what to keep'Cause every hand's a winnerAnd every hand's a loserAnd the best that you can hope forIs to die in your sleep" And when he'd finished speakin'He turned back toward the windowCrushed out his cigaretteFaded off to sleepAnd somewhere in the darknessThe gambler he broke evenBut in his final wordsI found an ace that I could keep You've got to know when to hold 'emKnow when to fold 'emKnow when to walk awayAnd know when to runYou never count your moneyWhen you're sittin' at the tableThere'll be time enough for countin'When the dealin's done   Find resources for your service marriage at www.life-giver.org Interested in joining the Lifegiver Facebook group to discuss this episode and more? Click here. Music by Rudy Vaughn

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode is Part 1 of The Tension Before You Go- So many couples struggle with tension and emotions all over the place before you rip the bandaid to spent that time apart.  Matt and Corie cover what they went through and what many other couples describe as one of the most challenging times a couple can go through in the military. To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode is Part 2 of The Tension Before You Go- So many couples struggle with tension and emotions all over the place before you rip the bandaid to spent that time apart.  Matt and Corie cover what they went through and what many other couples describe as one of the most challenging times a couple can go through in the military. To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode talks about the feelings that come with having to say goodbye.  Everyone knows it is hard, but what if you feel a little bit of relief?  Is that wrong?  How do you set your sights forward and get on mission?  Plus a special guest joins in the discussion...   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode talks about the feelings that come with having to say goodbye.  Everyone knows it is hard, but what if you feel a little bit of relief?  Is that wrong?  How do you set your sights forward and get on mission?  Plus a special guest joins in the discussion...   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode covers how you as a couple can stay connected and on the same page during especially difficult Holidays, whether it is Christmas, Birthdays, or even an Anniversary.   Listen as Matt and I authentically share how we are doing and what tools we re using to stay connected.   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode covers how you as a couple can stay connected and on the same page during especially difficult Holidays, whether it is Christmas, Birthdays, or even an Anniversary.   Listen as Matt and I authentically share how we are doing and what tools we re using to stay connected.   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode answers some of your biggest questions about parenting- especially while apart.  Regardless of which stage you are in, there will always be times where you parent out of an imprinting from your own childhood or clash with your spouse on parenting techniques.  Listen in as we share some of what we have learned.   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. This episode answers some of your biggest questions about parenting- especially while apart.  Regardless of which stage you are in, there will always be times where you parent out of an imprinting from your own childhood or clash with your spouse on parenting techniques.  Listen in as we share some of what we have learned.   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Intimacy is a HUGE topic, especially for service couples.  In this episode, Matt and I address sexual intimacy and many of the other types of intimacy couples can use to connect.  Believe it or not, experts say there is between 5 and 40 different types of intimacy. We take some of the most popular questions surrounding intimacy, especially for couples who have to spend time apart. Don't miss this one!   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Intimacy is a HUGE topic, especially for service couples.  In this episode, Matt and I address sexual intimacy and many of the other types of intimacy couples can use to connect.  Believe it or not, experts say there is between 5 and 40 different types of intimacy. We take some of the most popular questions surrounding intimacy, especially for couples who have to spend time apart. Don't miss this one!   To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Communication is the top issue couples ask for help with.  We all have different types of communication styles and often that clashes into conflict and hurt.  On top of that, no one teaches us how to communicate in healthy assertive ways. Instead, we grow up with passive, passive-aggressive, or aggressive examples to model.  Join Matt and I as we share our challenges to communicating over the distance of a deployment and tips for how you can make improvements in your own connection with your spouse.    To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Communication is the top issue couples ask for help with.  We all have different types of communication styles and often that clashes into conflict and hurt.  On top of that, no one teaches us how to communicate in healthy assertive ways. Instead, we grow up with passive, passive-aggressive, or aggressive examples to model.  Join Matt and I as we share our challenges to communicating over the distance of a deployment and tips for how you can make improvements in your own connection with your spouse.    To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Restoring trust after it has been broken can be scary, confusing, and difficult to navigate.  Depending on if you are dealing small of large infractions, deep hurt in your relationship can be healed and restored.  In this episode, Matt and I talk about how you can ask for trust to be restored, or do the hard work to earn it back.  Even if you have been devastated by betrayal, there is hope.  Listen in and find out how.  To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again Forgiveness: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ajqyv-b8c9f1 My Strategy for Affair Recovery: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-5jwg4-b63b20 Here are some of the resources mentioned throughout the episode: My interview with Dr. Mike Sytsma Here is also my podcast on “Sin in a Christian Marriage” Part 1 & Part 2  More Resources: • Torn Asunder by Dave Carder. There is also a workbook available for this book. (faith based) • Unfaithful: Hope and Healing After Infidelity by Gary & Mona Shriver (faith based) • Secrets to Surviving Infidelity by Scott Haltzman • After the Affair by Janis Spring   Rebuilding Trust Video – Using the image of a “trust bucket,” Dr. Mike addresses rebuilding trust after an affair. Setbacks in Marriage- The Podcast Episode Women & the Tough Bible Verses– (Topic of Submission and gender roles in the Bible- Authentic Intimacy) People Are More Important Than Marriage– Authentic Intimacy, When you shouldn’t fight for your marriage Sexual Intimacy and Post Affair with Mike Sytsma How do Affairs Happen? New Life Church, Brady Boyd Articles: So You’ve Hit a Marriage Setback: 3 Steps Military Marriage: When to Separate Mike Sytsma- Betrayal & Affair Recovery (articles and video) Protecting Your Marriage from an Affair  Books: Mission Ready Marriage: My Life As An Active Duty Wife Claire Wood Sacred Spaces: My Journey to the Heart of Military Marriage Corie Weathers

The USO is launching a new virtual series with Corie and Matt Weathers on how military families can stay strong while apart. Corie and Matt Weathers will share how they are keeping their military marriage strong through a season apart - as well as tips for how you can do the same. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Restoring trust after it has been broken can be scary, confusing, and difficult to navigate.  Depending on if you are dealing small of large infractions, deep hurt in your relationship can be healed and restored.  In this episode, Matt and I talk about how you can ask for trust to be restored, or do the hard work to earn it back.  Even if you have been devastated by betrayal, there is hope.  Listen in and find out how.  To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again Forgiveness: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ajqyv-b8c9f1 My Strategy for Affair Recovery: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-5jwg4-b63b20 Here are some of the resources mentioned throughout the episode: My interview with Dr. Mike Sytsma Here is also my podcast on “Sin in a Christian Marriage” Part 1 & Part 2  More Resources: • Torn Asunder by Dave Carder. There is also a workbook available for this book. (faith based) • Unfaithful: Hope and Healing After Infidelity by Gary & Mona Shriver (faith based) • Secrets to Surviving Infidelity by Scott Haltzman • After the Affair by Janis Spring Rebuilding Trust Video – Using the image of a “trust bucket,” Dr. Mike addresses rebuilding trust after an affair. Setbacks in Marriage- The Podcast Episode Women & the Tough Bible Verses– (Topic of Submission and gender roles in the Bible- Authentic Intimacy) People Are More Important Than Marriage– Authentic Intimacy, When you shouldn’t fight for your marriage Sexual Intimacy and Post Affair with Mike Sytsma How do Affairs Happen? New Life Church, Brady Boyd Articles: So You’ve Hit a Marriage Setback: 3 Steps Military Marriage: When to Separate Mike Sytsma- Betrayal & Affair Recovery (articles and video) Protecting Your Marriage from an Affair  Books: Mission Ready Marriage: My Life As An Active Duty Wife Claire Wood Sacred Spaces: My Journey to the Heart of Military Marriage Corie Weathers

It seems odd to officially launch Season 6 as the USO series is coming to a close but it could not be a more perfect time to talk about coming out of the last year and a half STRONGER.  That is the theme for this season.  Listen in as I give an update on the impact of change in my life and how the last year may have impacted your's. We will talk about tips for recovering and finding what brings you joy.  Even more, if you are a leader or wanting to get involved more in your community, this season is for you.  We will talk about what I am seeing will be needed in our culture to get us back to a place of valuing community and engaging in more face to face opportunities.   If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the LIfegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

In his thirty years in special operations Dan Schilling conducted combat and clandestine missions around the world, founded and then commanded two special operations squadrons—the second one of America's most clandestine special mission units—and worked alongside the CIA, FBI, and NSA to defeat terrorists as well as biological and nuclear weapons proliferation. An adrenaline enthusiast, Schilling is a professional demonstration skydiver, holds the Guinness World Record for most BASE jumps in twenty-four hours, and is a mountain speedwing pilot.  For more information on his projects, visit him at DanSchillingBooks.com. On this episode, we are talking about his newest book, "The Power of Awareness"- where he shares his training and experience on how to stay safe, know your surroundings, reduce your digital footprint, and trust your intuition. "The Power of Awareness" comes out the week of June 1, 2021.    If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the LIfegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

Matt and I join the USO to talk about how we are handling Reintegration in the "You're Leaving, Again?" series.  Reintegration never gets easier, it just changes depending on the season you are in.  Coming off a year of COVID and a deployment, Matt seemed to be in a much better spot than I was.  In this episode we share our ups and downs and how we are navigating bringing our two separate worlds together.  Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Restoring trust after it has been broken can be scary, confusing, and difficult to navigate.  Depending on if you are dealing small of large infractions, deep hurt in your relationship can be healed and restored.  In this episode, Matt and I talk about how you can ask for trust to be restored, or do the hard work to earn it back.  Even if you have been devastated by betrayal, there is hope.  Listen in and find out how.  To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the LIfegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

Matt and I join the USO to talk about how we are handling Reintegration in the "You're Leaving, Again?" series.  Reintegration never gets easier, it just changes depending on the season you are in.  Coming off a year of COVID and a deployment, Matt seemed to be in a much better spot than I was.  In this episode we share our ups and downs and how we are navigating bringing our two separate worlds together.  Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. Restoring trust after it has been broken can be scary, confusing, and difficult to navigate.  Depending on if you are dealing small of large infractions, deep hurt in your relationship can be healed and restored.  In this episode, Matt and I talk about how you can ask for trust to be restored, or do the hard work to earn it back.  Even if you have been devastated by betrayal, there is hope.  Listen in and find out how.  To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the LIfegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org

Matt and I join the USO to finish our series called "You're Leaving Again?" with sharing our lessons learned from the deployment as well as answering YOUR questions. Learn how to vision cast for your family and get your marriage to a new healthier place. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the Lifegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

Matt and I join the USO to finish our series called "You're Leaving Again?" with sharing our lessons learned from the deployment as well as answering YOUR questions. Learn how to vision cast for your family and get your marriage to a new healthier place. Tools and concepts discussed during the series apply to all types of military-initiated separations; from deployments and trainings, to geo-bachelor tours, unaccompanied tours, and even third shift schedules. To access the Series dashboard, including the videos and handouts: https://www.uso.org/campaign/mvp-youre-leaving-again If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the Lifegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

Today's episode is part of a three part series on Restoration. In this series, Corie will unpack God's design for restoration in relationships especially your marriage. Recorded at a faith-based event in Oregon, Corie shares how your marriage can move past hurt and into a more intimate and forgiving place. While the Lifegiver Podcast is not necessarily a faith based podcast, it is a place for honest conversation and we believe that conversation often needs to address the deeper questions of spirituality and deeper healing for the soul.  Here is a view of Maslow's Ladder, referenced in the episode. If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the Lifegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

Today's episode is part of a three part series on Restoration. In this series, Corie will unpack God's design for restoration in relationships especially your marriage. Recorded at a faith-based event in Oregon, Corie shares how your marriage can move past hurt and into a more intimate and forgiving place. While the Lifegiver Podcast is not necessarily a faith based podcast, it is a place for honest conversation and we believe that conversation often needs to address the deeper questions of spirituality and deeper healing for the soul.  If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the Lifegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

Today's episode is part of a three part series on Restoration. In this series, Corie will unpack God's design for restoration in relationships especially your marriage. Recorded at a faith-based event in Oregon, Corie shares how your marriage can move past hurt and into a more intimate and forgiving place. While the Lifegiver Podcast is not necessarily a faith based podcast, it is a place for honest conversation and we believe that conversation often needs to address the deeper questions of spirituality and deeper healing for the soul.      If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the Lifegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org  

Special Edition: Afghanistan Through a Gold Star's Eyes In light of this week's events, we are bringing you content that will help you process your biggest questions regarding the withdrawal of our troops in Afghanistan. In this unscripted, unedited episode, Krista S. Anderson processes the death of her husband in Afghanistan, her marriage to a soldier now who served there and her message to what many service members are feeling about the loss of soldiers they served with. WATCH THIS EPISODE HERE:  If you are looking for professional help, be sure to check out the Lifegiver Directory- full of clinicians that understand your lifestyle.  Many of them are military spouses and veterans. find it here: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Find out more about me www.corieweathers.com  or www.life-giver.org

My father, Vietnam Veteran Pilot Wendell Lewis, shares his experience evacuating Vietnamese citizens and orphans out of Saigon in Operation Baby Lift while the North Vietnamese closed in. Considering the disturbing footage of Afghans desperately trying to flee the country and Air Force crews making the difficult choice to evacuate those they could, Wendell shares what that felt like and answers the question, "Is this our Vietnam?" #operationbabylift More on Operation Baby Lift: https://youtu.be/t4-syR5h8mw

Please listen to my AMAZING interview with Dr. Bina Patel. This is an honest, yet inspiring conversation around the question "What do we do about the Afghan women and children?" It is a tough topic, but one you won't want to miss as you process your own thoughts and feelings about what is happening.   You can catch all the episodes (video and audio) here: https://www.life-giver.org/the-afghanistan-series/    

Matt joins the series (finally, lol) to share his thoughts about the Afghanistan withdrawal and the ending of a two decade war that he was a part of. After two difficult deployments there, he processes the emotions he has had and revisits the memories it brings up. He also shares what he believe will help him and others take the next healthy step. WATCH THIS EPISODE: https://youtu.be/B0Ms7bJbqo0 Catch up on all the other episodes of the Afghanistan Series here: https://www.life-giver.org/the-afghanistan-series/

In Part 2, Matt continues to share his thoughts about the Afghanistan withdrawal and the ending of a two decade war that he was a part of. After two difficult deployments there, he processes the emotions he has had and revisits the memories it brings up. He also shares what he believe will help him and others take the next healthy step. WATCH THIS EPISODE: https://youtu.be/Rts4CWDK_54 Catch up on all the other episodes of the Afghanistan Series here: https://www.life-giver.org/the-afghanistan-series/

In May of 2009, 3rd Squadron 61st Cavalry Regiment deployed to Nuristan, Afghanistan a small eastern province bordering Pakistan. When they arrived, they occupied the most fringe outposts of Regional Command East, several of which were only accessible by helicopter, and then only during the cover of the darkest nights of each month, in order to avoid rocket propelled grenade attacks against the airframe.   The squadron commander for the deployment was then-lieutenant Robert “Brad” Brown. In preparation for that deployment, he, along with then-Colonel Randy George, went on the pre-deployment site survey to better understand the terrain and complex environment of which they were only months away from assuming responsibility. During that trip, they arrived at Combat Outpost Keating, a remote outpost named for Ben Keating, who had died attempting to drive one of the lumbering resupply vehicles down the treacherous road back to the forward operating base. Standing in that base built in a valley at the base of three mountains and backed up to two rivers, both men understood that there could be no delay in closing that base for the safety of their Troopers. Anyone who visited COP Keating knew full well that it was the tactically indefensible position in which you could ever place yourself.   But that wasn't the only conundrum. COP Keating wasn't alone. In order to close it, you would have to close the other two outposts in the surrounding area, almost simultaneously to ensure that they could provide reinforcing fires for one another. Concurrently, south of the forward operating base, one the observation posts that LTC Brown would be assuming responsibility for had recently been completely overrun by the Taliban, who attacked up a mountain as the Afghan National Army abandoned their post, forcing the remaining US Troopers to call for a broken arrow, requesting fire on their position as they were being overrun. And to complicate all of that, the going-in position of relieving the outgoing unit would have them arrayed across a vast swath of land, terribly difficult to resupply, with barely enough Troopers to simply pull security on their own position.   For multiple reasons they were unable to close COP Keating, OP Fritsche, and COP Lowell as quickly as they needed to. Unknown to the base closure planners of 3-61CAV, as they were simultaneously planning to close the three outposts in Kamdesh, the Taliban was planning a massive complex attack to prevent them from ever leaving.   On the morning of October 3rd, 2009 more than 400 insurgents attacked OP Fritsche and COP Keating simultaneously. A force of only 52 Troopers defended COP Keating, even after Afghan National Army abandoned their post and the insurgents broke through the perimeter, causing a small group of Troopers, led by Staff Sergeant Clint Romesha, to engage the enemy in close-quarters combat, retaking the COP. However, at the end of the day, the Troopers of Black Knight troop, 3rd squadron 61st cavalry regiment would be saying their final goodbyes to eight of their friends who had given their lives during that battle.   The diligent devotion of their squadron commander, however, ensured that this moment would not be easily erased from history. LTC Brown and his staff worked to guarantee the recognition of the heroic efforts of those who went above and beyond to place themselves in harm's way to protect each other, destroy the enemy, and bring the remains of their friends home. Those efforts to ensure recognition succeeded.   What has since become known as the “Battle of Kamdesh,” resulted in the following awards:   Two Medals of Honor for SSG Clint Romesha and SSG Ty Carter Two Distinguished Service Crosses for 1LT Andrew Bundermann and SSG Justin Gellagos (posthumously awarded) Nine Silver Stars 18 bronze stars with “V” device for valor 37 Army Commendation Medals with “V” device for valor And 27 Purple hearts for wounds sustained in combat   SSG Romesha authored the book “Red Platoon” and Jake Tapper authored “The Outpost,” which has since been turned into a major motion picture.   The fall-out of the battle, including the loss of life, took it's toll on everyone involved and amongst others within the squadron, however. The subsequent investigation held both COL George and LTC Brown responsible, even though the ISAF-commander at the time, GEN Stanley McChrystal, agreed there was nothing more they could have tactically done to prevent the disaster. Many of the Troopers completed their obligation and left the army, preferring lives of quiet and peace, away from the constant reminder of the toughest day of their life.   LTC Brown however, still had eight months left to command his squadron through a deployment in one of the most kinetic provinces in all of Afghanistan. The two artillery guns on his forward operating base fired over 6000 rounds total during their year-long deployment. He had lost two beloved Troopers before Keating, while sending back home dozens of wounded Troopers before and after the Battle for Kamdesh. To put it in context, in the first four months of his deployment, LTC Brown's squadron of rag-tag cavalrymen were attacked more than 238 times across seven separate locations. And yet, he persevered with courage, humility, devotion, and determination. It is why those of us who served with him as the commander of 3rd squadron 61st cavalry regiment unabashedly and unquestionably remember him, to this day, as the best leader we ever served with. As his former chaplain, I can guarantee that he's the real deal and I am humbled to know him. So without further ado, here is the one and only, Brad Brown.

Introducing the latest series- the First Responder Series!!  Sarah Foster, SWAT wife, joins the podcast with her positivity and humor to share lifegiving content to first responder marriages.  Military, this one is for you, too! We have so much we can learn from each other.    WATCH this episode here: https://youtu.be/z7Ckvc1dEMA Catch the entire series here, including previous first responder content: https://www.life-giver.org/the-first-responder-series-with-sarah-foster/   Looking for a clinician that understands your lifestyle!  Search the Lifegiver Directory: www.lifegiverdirectory.com   Check out www.life-giver.org for more content, resources, digital resources, the Lifegiver Directory, and more! Increase your communication and intimacy in less than 5 minutes with my Lifegiver "5 Minute Check-In"   

Sarah Foster, SWAT wife, joins the podcast with her positivity and humor to share lifegiving content to first responder marriages.  Military, this one is for you, too! We have so much we can learn from each other.    In this episode, Sarah goes back to the beginning to share what she wish she would have known when her service life first started. Catch the entire series here, including previous first responder content: https://www.life-giver.org/the-first-responder-series-with-sarah-foster/   Looking for a clinician that understands your lifestyle!  Search the Lifegiver Directory: www.lifegiverdirectory.com   Check out www.life-giver.org for more content, resources, digital resources, the Lifegiver Directory, and more! Increase your communication and intimacy in less than 5 minutes with my Lifegiver "5 Minute Check-In"   

Sarah Foster, host of the FR Series sits down with her husband to talk about what led him to join law enforcement, drives him to be his best for his teammates, and whether she forced him into homesteading.  You might catch their dog Bullet in the background! Listen in as the couple talks about the pros and cons of the lifestyle and hopefully encourages more open conversations with your spouse.   Catch the entire series here, including previous first responder content: https://www.life-giver.org/the-first-responder-series-with-sarah-foster/ Looking for a clinician that understands your lifestyle!  Search the Lifegiver Directory: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Check out www.life-giver.org for more content, resources, digital resources, the Lifegiver Directory, and more! Increase your communication and intimacy in less than 5 minutes with my Lifegiver "5 Minute Check-In"   

In this episode, Sarah sits down with good friend and fellow LEO spouse Shauna for an authentic conversation on what it is really like to do life with a chaotic first responder schedule. Shauna shares how she and her husband navigate anniversaries and childrens' schedules while she also juggles a full-time job.  Most important, Sarah and Shauna discuss the power of friendship and how even long-distance friends who understand can make all the difference. Catch the entire series here, including previous first responder content: https://www.life-giver.org/the-first-responder-series-with-sarah-foster/ Looking for a clinician that understands your lifestyle!  Search the Lifegiver Directory: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Check out www.life-giver.org for more content, resources, digital resources, the Lifegiver Directory, and more! Increase your communication and intimacy in less than 5 minutes with my Lifegiver "5 Minute Check-In"   

Did you know that many spouses are considered caregivers and don't know it? I'm sure you are feeling it and maybe you just needed a name for it. Whether you are taking care of the medical and physical needs of those around you or just feeling the weight of this life on. your shoulders, this episode is important. November is National Caregiver's Month, so Conwell Smith and Deidre Blascyk from the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, join me to share some of the surprising findings they found on military spouses and the impact of the military lifestyle. RCI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health, strength, and resilience of caregivers throughout the United States. Listen in to be validated, inspired, and encouraged to take care of you in a whole new way. Find out about the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers here: https://www.rosalynncarter.org/ Learn more about Operation Family Caregiver and sign up for one-on-one coaching here: http://operationfamilycaregiver.org/signup Learn more about RCI's virtual peer support group, Operation Caregiver Support, and sign up here: https://www.operationfamilycaregiver.org/ocs On social media: http://facebook.com/opfamcaregiver https://www.instagram.com/operationfamilycaregiver Looking for a clinician that understands your lifestyle!  Search the Lifegiver Directory: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Check out www.life-giver.org for more content, resources, digital resources, the Lifegiver Directory, and more! Increase your communication and intimacy in less than 5 minutes with my Lifegiver "5 Minute Check-In"   

What a year.  Didn't we say that about 2020?  Here we are ending 2021 and some of us are still feeling like we are crawling along.  After a year of deployment, reintegration, some tough circumstances, and the world opening back up, I really had to take a look at whether I had enough "life" in me to truly breathe life into others.  The more I traveled, the more I realized so many other service families were feeling the same.  In fact, very few could tell me what "self-care" actually looked like for them (if they had time to do it).   So... for this finale, I cover what you said in the end-of-year survey (you can still take it here).  There are some very interesting things going on for serving spouses vs supporting spouses.  There are also hints at how the last two years have impact you and our service culture. I also share how I turned my life around and learned to implement some key self-care strategies in my life. Don't know where to start??  I'll walk you through how to find activities that breathe life into you and then how to fit it into your daily life in a way that will make sure it happens.   Looking for a clinician that understands your lifestyle!  Search the Lifegiver Directory: www.lifegiverdirectory.com Check out www.life-giver.org for more content, resources, digital resources, the Lifegiver Directory, and more! Increase your communication and intimacy in less than 5 minutes with my Lifegiver "5 Minute Check-In"   

The Lifegiver Podcast is back! (And this time with a co-host!) Corie Weathers and Sarah Foster, First Responder Spouse and frequent guest to Lifegiver, sit down and discuss the heart behind Season 7: Reconnect. Join them as they unpack what a front porch conversation looks like, the meaning behind the album cover, and putting social media in it's place. We are taking a break from social media, but that doesn't mean you can't find us!  Song Credits: “By Your Side” Written by Justin Prins Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info.

What's the difference between selfishness and self awareness? Corie and Sarah return to discuss and define how self awareness of what is happening in our mind, body and spirit are key components to our mental health, physical health and the influence we have in our relationships. Join the conversation as they pull apart each of these components and dive in to what it looks like to be self aware. Need help sorting out the tangled web of thoughts, feelings, emotions and needs? Start here with our FREE 5 Minute Check In OR Check out our 5 Minute Check In tools to help you and your family be more intentional in your communication. Lost for words? Consider using a feelings wheel to help maximize your 5 Minute Check In.   Don't forget! Song Credits: “By Your Side” by Justin Prin We are taking a break from social media, but that doesn't mean you can't find us!  Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info.

Corie and Sarah sit down and discuss the differences between over reaction, under reaction and the importance of being proactive. Join the conversation as they seek to answer the question, how do we become less reactive in such a reactive lifestyle and world?   Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.    For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org   We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com    Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info.   Song Credits: “By Your Side” written by Justin Prin   

What do we do when we realize our limitations and the limitations of others? Where do we go for our source? How do we reconcile the evil a service lifestyle comes in contact with? Corie and Sarah sit down to discuss what it means to reconnect spiritually, how this lifestyle has shaped their views of faith tradition and ultimately where to go when we realize our hope has been misplaced.  To hear more on the topic of moral/soul injury and to access other previous episodes pertaining to service and faith visit our Faith and Service Page at https://www.life-giver.org/faith-service/  We are taking a break from social media, but that doesn't mean you can't find us!  Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: “By Your Side” written by Justin Prin   

How do we get to a place where we are living on purpose, for a purpose? Corie sits down with her aunt and mentor, June, to discuss the journey of learning to accept things for what they are, become better for it, and help someone else through it. Listen in as they expound on what it means to realize that you simply cannot manage situations and others into place. Books recommended by June:  "It's Not Supposed to be This Way" Lisa Terkeurst "Soul Keeping: Caring for the Most Important Part of You", John Ortberg "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality" Peter Scazzero "Art of Survival in an Age of Chaos" Chip Ingram   Song credits: "By Your Side" written by Justin Prins We are taking a break from social media, but that doesn't mean you can't find us!  Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info.

What defines a hard choice? While the hard choices in our life may seem subjective to others, the decisions we make reflect what we value. Corie and Sarah explore the process of weighing the costs of the hard choices in our life including the difficulties of the service lifestyle. Song credits: "By Your Side" written by Justin Prins Corie's Go To for Hard Choices: Giant Whiteboard We are taking a break from social media, but that doesn't mean you can't find us!  Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info.

In this episode, Corie sits down with Special Ops couple Mark and Caroline as they share their journey through the hardships and pain unique to a service marriage. Listen in as they recount how they were able to hold each other's experiences while also working through their own personal struggles. Be inspired as they tell of the deep joy and intimacy that only suffering can produce and find encouragement in knowing that your marriage can flourish as a result of this lifestyle.    Resources Mentioned in this Episode: The Place We Find Ourselves Podcast https://adamyoungcounseling.com/podcast/ Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro Check out our Additional Resources for Personal and Marital Growth HERE   Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources be sure to check out our new website layout and "help me with" section at www.life-giver.org  We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/  for more info. Song Credits: “By Your Side” written by Justin Prin   

In 2017 Ken Grubbs was shot on duty responding to a call at an apartment complex. In this episode, Sarah sits down with Ken and Wende Grubbs as they share their journey of walking through a situation many hope to never face. Listen in and be encouraged by the perspective they found along the way and how one of the most difficult incidents in their life would also end up being the catalyst for deeper communication and intimacy in their marriage.    Emotional Survival For Law Enforcement by Kevin M Gilmart PHD For more info about Bless the Badge: https://blessthebadge.net/    Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: “By Your Side” written by Justin Prin   

Community. We've all been hurt by it, longed for it, and struggled in it. In a world that touts itself as connected more than ever, how do we reconcile the ache within us for physical presence and the need to be seen? Sit down and lean in as Corie walks Sarah through a very candid conversation about the need and the pain of community.   Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources be sure to check out our new website layout and help me with section at www.life-giver.org  We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/  for more info. Song Credits: “By Your Side” written by Justin Prin 

Leaving this lifestyle can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. For many couples, crossing the finish line can bring conflict as you and your spouse bring different expectations to the transition . In this episode, Corie sits down with Jeff & Lori Hawkins who share how they navigated major decisions about where to live, what to value, and what to do next. Listen as they pass down wisdom they learned from their mentors, how they keep their marriage thriving now that they are together more than they've ever been and how they continue to build their identity on what really matters. Sign up for our monthly newsletter to help breathe MARGIN into your life.  For more content and resources be sure to check out our new website layout and help me with section at www.life-giver.org  We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com  Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/  for more info. Song Credits: “By Your Side” written by Justin Prin 

It's time to wrap up Reconnect! In this season finale, Corie and Sarah sit down to revisit lessons learned while recording the podcast and their favorite parts of the season. They also dive deep into the generational influences that impact WHY we value what we value and how that can look very different from person to person. While this may be the season finale, this is not your typical surface-level wrap up- there is still MUCH to explore as we reconnect to what matters most.   Song Credits: “By Your Side” Written by Justin Prinn   Find out more about Corie here: https://linktr.ee/corieweathers   For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org   We want to hear from you! It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at corie@corieweathers.com   Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info.

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History! In this episode from Season 4, I'll talk about the results of a spouse survey I created that went viral.  Almost 750 spouses told me how they are REALLY doing and it turns out... We have lots to talk about. I wasn't surprised that we are struggling as a community. Many of you aren't doing well and you aren't talking about it.  In fact, many are burned out, exhausted, and borderline resentful.  So in this episode, we are going to get honest about that. But there are some of you who are really doing great.  So what is the difference?  Take a listen to find out where you fall with other spouses in the community.  Perhaps you need some encouragement from others who are figuring out how to balance it all or maybe you have a lot more to offer than you thought... It's time to breathe life into our family- the community family as well.   Books mentioned in the podcast:  Leading Women Who Wound Connect with Corie Weathers!  www.life-giver.org www.corieweathers.com  Join the conversation and participate in future shows! @CorieLPC 

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History!  In this episode, we are talking about the importance of Timing and Tact with our emotions and words.  Whether you are in conflict with you spouse, in a leadership position, or even a public advocate.  Especially military spouses feel at times like their voice is limited and that any complaints can come across as being a negative spouse.  The truth is, we have a right to our feelings and opinions but have great responsibility in how we express them.  Rather than become passive or perhaps worse- aggressive- we can learn to be more assertive in kindness and love.  But... also with the right timing and tact.  Listen in as I give examples and practical tips on how to be more confident with the amazing influence you have in your marriage, parenting, and in the world.

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History!    Listen in to the Season 4 FINALE with a big question that likely everyone has asked... "Who is really in Charge?"  Is it man?  Is it God?  When does God get in involved?  Why doesn't he?  Perhaps you are waiting on orders to your next assignment (like we are) and wondering if the people involved are listening to God.  Or maybe you are praying for a promotion or for your spouse to turn back to God.  Some of you may have even experienced abuse at the hands of someone else and are wondering, "Why didn't God intervene?"  In this Sunday Special, I open up on my own journey to look into the Sovereignty of God and tackle these big questions by diving into what scripture says about it. Included in this episode: A portion of James Cordon's Late Night Show.  To listen to the full video, watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgLOv36an3s

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History!  Episode 2, Season 4 What happens when a veteran, a military spouse, and a first responder spouse sit down and talk about life together?   I often get asked, do we really have that much in common?  Why would I have a podcast where I address the needs of both military and first responders?  Because we have a whole lot more in common than you think. In this episode, I bring Ashley and Sarah on the podcast to talk about our different worlds and we would love for you to join us.  Sarah is a first responder spouse, whose husband is now on the local SWAT team.  She brings authenticity and humor that will brighten anyone's day.   Ashley, calling in from Italy, is a veteran herself by has retired and is now a military spouse.  For those who don't know, we call that a dual service family.  She brings a perspective that all of use should pay attention to. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and pretend you are sitting at the table with us.  You will definitely be changed by this conversation. Connect with Corie Weathers!  www.life-giver.org www.corieweathers.com  Join the conversation and participate in future shows! @CorieLPC 

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History! Dr. Les Parrot joins me for an episode that is all about how couples can use a tool like the Better Love Assessment to get a healthy snapshot or check up on their marriage.  Dr. Parrott is a globally sought-after marriage psychologist along with his wife, Leslie Parrott also a marriage therapist. Together, they have written several books and speak on how to improve your marriage communication, reduce conflict, improve your sex life, and much more.  In this episode, Dr. Parrott shares more about the Better Love Assessment (found at www.betterlove.com) in pointing out the individual strengths in your marriage.  Better Love can be a great tool for date night discussions, working on your marriage during a deployment or separation, and even ways to talk through topics that are normally hot topics.  To find out more and subscribe to Dr. Parrott's resources, check out www.lesandleslie.com  

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History! I received feedback that some of you would like faith-based content AND hearing from Matt- so this episode is the both of us giving a talk at our old stomping grounds where we first met- Gardner-Webb University.  The sound on this one is a bit different because it was recorded in a different place and format, but I hope the message comes through in a way that will encourage your story. I hope that you enjoy this episode.  I personally am huge fan of Matt Weathers, so I'm happy to share the stage with him anytime. Connect with Corie Weathers!  www.life-giver.org www.corieweathers.com  Join the conversation and participate in future shows! @CorieLPC 

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History! Listen in to my premiere interview with actor, Emmy nominated director, and producer Sarah Drew as she talks about life after Grey's Anatomy, marriage, and her newest movie Indivisible that hits theaters Oct 26th. Indivisible is based on real life Army Chaplain Couple Darren & Heather Turner. Find theaters and more on INDIVISIBLE: https://indivisiblemovie.com/  

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History! Betrayal is, unfortunately, more common than you think- especially in the service culture.  In this episode, I share with you the strategy I use to help couples work through affair recovery.  There are three phases and couples will certainly stall if not fail to recover their marriage if they miss important steps throughout the phases.  Two people, if are both willing to work hard, can rebuild their marriage after an affair and go on to have a rich relationship.   Here are some of the resources mentioned throughout the episode: My interview with Dr. Mike Sytsma Here is also my podcast on "Sin in a Christian Marriage" Part 1 & Part 2  More Resources: • Torn Asunder by Dave Carder. There is also a workbook available for this book. (faith based) • Unfaithful: Hope and Healing After Infidelity by Gary & Mona Shriver (faith based) • Secrets to Surviving Infidelity by Scott Haltzman • After the Affair by Janis Spring  Rebuilding Trust Video – Using the image of a “trust bucket”, Dr. Mike addresses rebuilding trust after a affair. Setbacks in Marriage- The Podcast Episode Women & the Tough Bible Verses– (Topic of Submission and gender roles in the Bible- Authentic Intimacy) People Are More Important Than Marriage– Authentic Intimacy, When you shouldn't fight for your marriage. Sexual Intimacy and Post Affair with Mike Sytsma How do Affairs Happen? New Life Church, Brady Boyd Articles: So You've Hit a Marriage Setback: 3 Steps Military Marriage: When to Separate Mike Sytsma- Betrayal & Affair Recovery (articles and video) Protecting Your Marriage from an Affair  Books: Mission Ready Marriage: My Life As An Active Duty Wife Claire Wood Sacred Spaces: My Journey to the Heart of Military Marriage Corie Weathers

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History!  We often hear from couples that the service lifestyle has made my spouse "cold, calculated, and harsh."  While this may be a nature versus nurture debate, the service lifestyle can definitely train a person to see the world differently.  In this episode, Corie and Matt talk about how this doesn't have to create more conflict in your marriage- in fact it can be a strength you lean on! Matt shares how growing up in a first responder home shaped him into the man he is today and how to understand the internal emotional world of warriors- in our community and military.  Join us in a fun and moving discussion on how you can embrace who you are as well as how life has shaped you and become a stronger team together. *** SPOILER ALERT- We talk about Avengers: Endgame in this episode, so please hold off on listening until you have seen it!

Season 7 might be over, but we are bringing back the Top 10 most listened-to episodes in Lifegiver Podcast History! Matt joins me again for another episode where we talk about the impact of Family Readiness on marriage. For decades, the military has told families that their support makes the mission successful. Unfortunately, families are getting tired and are wondering at what cost. In this episode, Matt and I have an honest conversation on how families indeed play a pay in mission readiness but also how we can change our perspective to a more influential one that can change the trajectory of our entire family.

Stay Tuned! Fantastic topics and interviews are coming your way in 2023. Subscribe and share with other military families and leaders you know. As always, I appreciate reviews on your podcast platform of choice. It's a great way to spread the word!  If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities for this season, email corie@corieweathers.com

On the Season 8 opener, we are talking all about how to recognize if we are managing our relationships to our own personal detriment. You may think you are helping, but what if you are only hurting yourself by walking on eggshells and not being fully honest or congruent with yourself?  We're diving in quickly on this season opener! Mentioned in this episode: Squared Away We exist to make work better by letting you focus solely on what matters. We are your trusted assistants. This entire journey started because Michelle, our CEO & Co-founder couldn't get a job due to her being a military spouse. Constantly changing bases meant being in a different city at a moment's notice. Everywhere she went, she met others with the same story. Highly educated, ready to work, struggling to find a job. Military spouses. Jennifer Hamrick: Once You See Racism: A Christian, White, Southern Woman's Journey from Being Oblivious to Racism to Seeing it Clearly Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari

Shaunti Feldhan joins Lifegiver to talk about her new book Secrets of Sex & Marriage that she co-wrote with intimacy expert Dr. Mike Sytsma.  Shaunti Feldhahn is a bestselling author, social researcher, speaker, and podcaster. A graduate of Harvard University and a former Wall Street analyst, Shaunti now uses her analytical skill to uncover those little things that can make big differences in lives and relationships, both at home and in the workplace. She and her husband, Jeff, have coauthored groundbreaking relationship books, translated into 25 languages with nearly 3 million copies sold, now used by therapists, clergy, corporate coaches, and HR departments. Her books include The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages; For Women Only; For Men Only; Through a Man's Eyes; and The Kindness Challenge. Learn more about Shaunti by visiting her website, https://shaunti.com/ Looking for more episodes on Affair Recovery?  Here are additional conversations, including more with Dr. Mike. Looking for more episodes on marriage enrichment?  Check out this page for more. Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari, "Invisible Beauty" by Aakash Gandhi

Dr. Mike is back to talk about his new book Secrets of Sex & Marriage that he co-wrote with marriage research expert Shaunti Feldhan.   Dr. Michael Sytsma is a licensed professional counselor, certified sex therapist, ordained minister, professor, and national speaker. With a pastoral heart, a gift in teaching, and a passion for helping couples grow in marriage, Dr. Systma uses his skills to teach couples important truths about marriage in a fun and interesting way, helping them to grow into healthier, transformative relationships with their spouses. He has over 30 years of clinical experience in sex therapy and is the founder of Building Intimate Marriages, Inc. and co-founder of Sexual Wholeness, Inc. He is coauthor of Secrets of Sex & Marriage: 8 Surprises that Make all the Difference, with Shaunti Feldhahn and contributor to several other works. Learn more about Dr. Sytsma by visiting https://intimatemarriage.org/bim-team/mike-sytsma/ Looking for more episodes on Affair Recovery?  Here are additional conversations, including more with Dr. Mike. Looking for more episodes on marriage enrichment?  Check out this page for more.

Dannah Gresh is a best-selling author and sought-after speaker. In her latest book, Happily Even After, Dannah is a friend who walks beside you as she demonstrates how to forgive, live with joy, and hold your head high while Jesus Christ redeems the broken places of your marriage after suffering from things like pornography, addiction, or even an affair.  Dannah has sold over 2 million books and reaches women and girls in more than 100 countries. Her best-selling titles include And the Bride Wore White, Lies Young Women Believe co-authored with Nancy Leigh DeMoss, and Lies Girls Believe. Dannah is the co-host of Revive Our Hearts, a daily podcast for women, and the founder of True Girl, which provides mom+daughter connection tools including the True Girl podcast. Learn more about Dannah by visiting her website, https://dannahgresh.com/ Looking for more episodes on Affair Recovery?  Here are additional conversations, including more with Dr. Mike. Looking for more episodes on marriage enrichment?  Check out this page for more. Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari, "Invisible Beauty" by Aakash Gandhi

Why is it so hard to apologize? These two words, "I'm Sorry", seem to throw off children and adults every time, catapulting people into further conflict. In this episode, we wrap up the marriage and intimacy series and introduce the leadership series by going back to the basics of conflict resolution and the dreaded apology.  We will cover: 1) The common responses of defensiveness that come up when we ask another person to change or address our hurt. 2) Whether intentions matter. 3). How to accept imperfection in ourselves and others while still asking for change, and  3) The critical importance and goal of learning how to repair conflict faster. Mentioned in this episode: Intent vs. Impact Gottman's Four Horseman Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari

Peter Docker served for 25 years as a Royal Air Force senior officer and has seen service across the globe as a Force Commander during combat flying operations. His career has spanned from professional pilot, teaching postgraduates at the UK's Defence College, to flying the British prime minister around the world. He has also led multibillion-dollar international procurement projects and served as a crisis manager and former international negotiator for the UK government. As a trained leadership consultant and executive coach, Peter has worked across 92 countries with clients like Google, Four Seasons Hotels, Accenture, American Express, ASOS, EY, NBC Universal and over 100 more. Peter Docker, co-author of Find Your Why and formerly a founding Igniter at Simon Sinek Inc., is passionate about enabling people to unlock their natural talents and teaches leadership that is focused on commitment and human connection. His latest book, Leading from the Jumpseat, delivers the message that leadership is about lifting people up and giving them the space they need so that, when the time is right, they can take the lead. Learn more about Peter by visiting his website, https://www.leadingfromthejumpseat.com/ Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari

This interview was inspired by an article that Lt. Col. (Rev.) Paul McCullough wrote. Check it out here: https://www.ausa.org/articles/accomplish-mission-love Lt. Col. (Rev.) Paul McCullough, U.S. Army retired, is president of the Association of the U.S. Army's Penn & Franklin-Greater Philadelphia Chapter and an Army Reserve Ambassador from Pennsylvania. He served 20 years in the Army, retiring in 2018 as deputy director for supplier operations, Defense Logistics Agency. He deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005, and in 2017 as commander of the DLA Support Team-Kuwait. He holds a doctorate in business administration from Walden University. Find out more about the NEW Military Bible Challenge App by visiting: https://www.revdrpaul.com/ You can also download the app: Apple or Android Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari

Matt joins me for an episode where we discuss what it takes to achieve "voluntary followership"- in other words, what does it take to lead in a way that people actually want to follow?  We also cover the following: How do you find the time to invest in those around you when your life and job are already too busy? What does it look like to invest in the next generation, especially if they have differing values from you? How can your decisions today impact the entire organization? Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari

The military lifestyle's stress is hard enough on marriage, but what happens when you add a medical diagnosis? A child in need of extra care?  In this episode, we explore Aaron and Monica Harding's story of finding help for their son, themselves, and their marriage.   The Harding's son Jackson (17) was diagnosed with SynGAP in 2015, at age 10. Today, with children aged 24, 21 and 17, his wife, Monica, is now just learning how to take time away. And, according to Aaron, “that's only because we started family therapy ~2 years ago.” Children living with SynGAP live with symptoms that include: autism / intellectual disabilities / sleep issues / behavior issues / seizures (sometimes a hundred a day) / delayed fine motor and language skills. Today, there is no cure, only medications that treat individual symptoms. Each case is different and brings its own unique challenges. For families like the Sandersons and the Hardings, those challenges are even more acute as they navigate the complexities of military life. Sign up for my monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari  

After hearing concerns on social media of Matt and I practicing yoga and prayerful meditation, I knew it was time to invite my dear friend Amber Mattingly, DMin to the podcast to share her story. This is a faith-based episode that addresses the biggest fears and questions around these practices. Amber began yoga when her son was newly diagnosed with autism. She was overwhelmed, frightened for his future, worried about her marriage, and frustrated at life. At the height of this experience, she stopped sleeping for a whole year. She was not the youthful mom coming to yoga to learn handstands and complicated poses. Instead, she was the young mom barely able to make it through the day who ended up spending most of the time crying on her mat. For her, yoga is a tool that reconnected her with her true self, strengthened connection with something greater than myself, and built relationships based on humility, compassion & radical amazement! Amber met Pema while pursuing her Doctor of Ministry degree in Compassion based Leadership and they wondered what might happen if people from different faith traditions shared a prayer/meditation practice. Would they grow spiritually together while deepening their connection to their own faith tradition? This curiosity lead them to develop a study that included Buddhist and Christian practitioners. What we found were some hidden treasures! Find out more about Amber: https://ambermattinglylivefree.com/ Read Amber and Pema's book: A Leap of (inter)Faith  

Listen now to the Season 8 Finale of what it means to  "Be Well". Right now the culture is struggling with a mental health crisis where we are confusing mental illness with mental health and mental wellness. What is the difference? And what is the next step towards you being truly well... Let's figure it out together. Pre-order Military Culture Shift (All pre-orders are autographed!)  Subscribe to the Military Culture Shift Podcast Sign up for my monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari    

The Military Culture Shift Limited Series Leadership Podcast launches Feb 15, 2024! Interviews with experts and leaders, (many of them mentioned in the book) will bring the book to life in a multi-sensory way, and breathe life into your home and leadership, and especially validate your story. Episodes will start on Feb 15th and roll out weekly so make sure you are subscribed so you don't miss them and have picked up the book if you haven't. (Order the book from Amazon here) Also, I'm encouraging you ahead of time to listen all the way to the end of each episode for powerful songs written and performed by veterans, military spouses, and even Gen Z military teens. I've so enjoyed lifting up our community and I hope you will feel lifted as well. Order your copy of Military Culture Shift here.  Listen to Corie's Lifegiver Podcast here Find out more about how you can work with and contact Corie here.  

Listen in for how a strengths-based approach changes the way we view our relationships, work, and even our perception of ourselves. After over a decade of helping individuals, leaders, and couples discover what their talents are, it has been incredible to watch marriages heal from miscommunication, differences, and betrayal, helping individuals heal through loss, and find joy in doing what they are exceptionally talented at. Whether you are a leader looking for a new tool that increases communication and productivity or looking to change the patterns of communication in your home, the strengths approach helps you work with what you already do well and use that to address what you aren't good at. It also sets you free from being all things to all people, and lets you just be you. Here are a few links mentioned in the episode: Gallup Strengthsfinder Assessment (Top 5 or Full 34) The Standout Assessment by Marcus Buckingham Strengths-based Coaching with Corie Weathers Sign up for my monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari

My new book Military Culture Shift is now available for pre-order and will launch November 14th! Order Here Subscribe to the Military Culture Shift Podcast NOW! In this episode, I talk about the power of choosing hard things and the character development that comes from the process. We are so used to only choosing activities that we will feel successful at. After a while, we are siloed into a lifestyle and career where we believe the lie that we have to be successful at whatever we put our mind to. Instead, think about what brings you joy, or what used to bring you joy, and consider valuing yourself enough to go back to it and give it a chance.  At 44, I picked up the cello after loving the sound of it my whole life. I had no idea just how much I was going to have to face some things in my life that have long needed to be addressed. Listen in as we talk about how to choose what your "hard thing" will be, what sabotages us from trying, how to develop the grit to persevere through discouragement and obstacles, and how it translates to our personal wellness and leadership in and out of the home.  Mentioned in this episode: Angela Duckworth: Grit: The Power of Passion & Perseverance and her TedTalk.  Sign up for our monthly newsletter here! For more content and resources visit www.life-giver.org We want to hear from you - It helps us serve you better! Send us an email at podcast@corieweathers.com Want to work with Corie? Check out https://www.corieweathers.com/ for more info. Song Credits: "You and Me" Tamas Kolozsvari