Milspouse Matters

Tune into this special episode to hear what's going on with Jen, some reflections on the past five years and what's coming for the podcast, and how to stay connected.  Mentioned in this episode:  Get Jen's new book here! https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters Get Jen's first book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse here: https://amzn.to/3T4zkzY  See Jen at the Tucson Book Festival, March 9-10, 2024! Come say hi to me at the W. Brand Publishing booth. Get more info here: https://tucsonfestivalofbooks.org/ All Milspouse Matters episodes and military spouse content is here: milspousematters.com Jen's writing, updates on book, and her author journey are here: jen-mcdonald.com ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube

Some of the most listened-to episodes for this podcast are on the topics of self-care and fitness, and so I'm delighted to bring you today's guest Grace Barnick-Damazo. We're talking all about how to “PCS proof” your fitness routine, along with some practical tips you can start using today. Grace is the Head Coach and Owner of FitPath Coaching, LLC. She's spent years learning from the best in the fitness industry, so that she can get you the results that you deserve. Grace is a Navy spouse, and she understands the unique challenges that military life plays in reaching your health and fitness goals. It's her mission to provide solutions that work for active duty women and military spouses, including her most recent fitness program, PCS Proof Fitness!  Grace was voted the 2018 Personal Trainer of the Year by her peers, and she's committed to providing the highest level, science-backed, proven programs to women in military life in a supportive, approachable, and affordable way. Fitness doesn't have to be complicated, and Grace breaks it all down for us in this episode. As she says, "When in doubt, go for a walk!" Grace is generously offering your first month of #PCSProofFitness completely free! Use this exclusive promo code on her site when you check out: MSMFREE Connect with Grace and her programs at:   https://www.fitpathcoaching.com/pcs-proof-fitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracebfitness/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracebfitness Spouse-ly Store: https://spouse-ly.com/store/fitpath-coaching-llc/   ---- Connect with Jen: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB  

On this episode, I'm speaking to Judy Gray and Taylor Kiland, the authors of the incredible newly released book, Unwavering: The Wives Who Fought to Ensure No Man is Left Behind. About the book: Moving from the sidelines to the frontlines of activism, a small group of military wives defies government rules to leave wartime diplomacy to the professionals. Speaking up about the plight of their missing and captive husbands, they successfully make the fate of their men a national priority in the 1960s. It was a time when a woman could rarely obtain credit, mortgage, or purchase a car without a signature from her husband or father. Yet they persevered, demonstrating great fortitude, moxy, and courage. Unwavering is a true story about these amazing women, some of whom are still alive. They were the force behind the policy of "Leave No Man Behind." Judy and Taylor, both military veterans themselves, share how this project came about, what kept them motivated as they wrote this book together, as well as a sneak peek at some of the amazing stories in the book. Unwavering is the quintessentially American story of how a group of women, once silenced and sidelined, persevered against all odds to change how America fights her wars. Watch the Unwavering book trailer and see this episode's complete show notes here. Get the Unwavering book on Amazon here. Connect with Unwavering, Judy, and Taylor: Unwavering book website: https://www.unwaveringbook.com X, Facebook, and Instagram as @Unwaveringbook Linked in: Judy Silverstein Gray, Taylor Kiland Mentioned in this episode: Military Moves and Deployments During the Holidays Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories Get 20% off the 5-Day Deployment Devotional during December with code December23 here Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Are you dealing with a military move or deployment right smack dab in the middle of the “most wonderful time of the year”? Let's talk about ways to cope and giving yourself permission to do what works for you and your family.   Mentioned in this episode:  Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters  Get 20% off the 5-Day Deployment Devotional during December with code December23:  https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/  Surviving a Military Move During the Holidays from MilitaryByOwner: https://blog.militarybyowner.com/surviving-a-military-move-during-the-holidays Getting Through the Holidays While Your Spouse Is Deployed: https://jen-mcdonald.com/getting-through-the-holidays-while-your-spouse-is-deployed/ Episode 99: Dealing with Anxiety as a Military Spouse: https://jen-mcdonald.com/show-notes/episode-99-dealing-with-anxiety-as-a-military-spouse/ The Christian Milspouse Podcast: https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcast/christian-milspouse-podcast/ Free mental health help and counseling:  https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ Telemynd (covered by TRICARE): https://www.telemynd.com/humanamilitary Having a Baby Overseas: What Military Spouses Should Know: https://jen-mcdonald.com/having-a-baby-overseas-what-military-spouses-should-know/ Want Jen to speak at your next military spouse event, book club, or conference? I can even drop in virtually! Contact me here: https://jen-mcdonald.com/contact/ Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

I'm so happy to bring you my talk with Charlynda Scales, author of the brand new book, Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline, which has already ranked as a best new release in its category! She's a veteran, now a reservist, a former military spouse, and an entrepreneur. Charlynda is not only impressive, but she's a kind-hearted person who is wise beyond her years. But that wisdom has been hard-won. We discuss the stories behind her book, her journey to becoming an entrepreneur, aligning yourself with others who are like-hearted vs. like-minded, advice for entrepreneurs or anyone starting over, and how to come back when life has brought you to rock bottom. As Charlynda says about the idea of "rock bottom has a trampoline," "I've heard the saying, 'rock bottom has a basement.' How freaking depressing is that statement? There's no faith in that. There's no light at the end of the tunnel in that quote. If you believe in something bigger than yourself, you'll never truly be at rock bottom. Rock bottom is not a place you go and stay. Rock bottom is a moment." Here's more about Charlynda: Charlynda Scales is a serial entrepreneur: She serves as founder and CEO of Mutt's Sauce LLC and OH Taste LLC; Director of the OH Taste Foundation (501c3), and creator of The Empower Collection. She is the author of the business empowerment book, Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline. Charlynda is a sought-after speaker and mentor for women's empowerment and small businesses. Her military career spans over 15 years; she's currently an Air Force Reservist stationed at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. Her son, David, is, in her opinion, her finest achievement. I'm certain you're going to be so inspired by Charlynda, just as I was. Get Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline Here: https://amzn.to/3Qv3DNM Get Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters  5-day Deployment Devotional, half off in the month of November with code November23: https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/  PILLAR online FREE deployment retreat, Nov. 17-19, 2023  - sign up here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/209167998492858  Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

It's no secret that military families love their pets! But what do you do if you're facing a deployment and have no one to care for your pet? Or if you get an overseas assignment to a location your pet can't go? Enter PACT for Animals! PACT for Animals is dedicated to fostering pets for active duty U.S. military members on deployment or an assignment where they cannot bring their pet and veterans in medical crisis.  On this episode, I'm speaking with Julie Zantopoulos from PACT for Animals. Julie shares the mission of PACT for Animals, which functions in all 50 states, information on how to foster or find care for pets, and ways you can support PACT for Animals. They're the only nationwide nonprofit that screens and matches pet fosters, facilitates the reunion, and also supports both the foster and pet's family through the duration of the separation. Connect with PACT for Animals:  Reach Julie: julie@pactforanimals.org https://pactforanimals.org/ https://www.facebook.com/PACTforAnimals https://www.instagram.com/pactforanimals/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/pactforanimals/ https://twitter.com/PACTforAnimals https://www.youtube.com/@PACTforAnimals  Mentioned in this episode:   Get Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters  5-day Deployment Devotional, half off in the month of November with code November23: https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/  PILLAR online FREE deployment retreat, Nov. 17-19, 2023  - sign up here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/209167998492858  Podcast deployment episodes: https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcategory/deployment/ Deployment blog posts: https://jen-mcdonald.com/category/deployment/ See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMep110 Connect with Jen and Milspouse Matters: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

In this episode of Milspouse Matters, Jen talks with Brooke McLean, retired CMSgt and President/CEO of the Air Force Enlisted Village (AFEV), a one-of-a-kind-community which has a mission of providing safe, secure homes for surviving spouses of military retirees and retired military couples. They discuss Brooke's military background, the mission of AFEV, and some of the wonderful stories of the residents, several of whom are featured in Jen's new book! Hear about a day in the life of a resident, eligibility criteria for residents, some heartwarming stories, and future plans for AFEV—including future developments like Victory Village and help for caregivers of our nation's Wounded Warriors—along with encouraging words for current military families.  Brooke also talks about his YouTube series, "Cook with Brooke," and ways listeners can help support AFEV, a 501c3 nonprofit. As Brooke says, if you're having a bad day, just get out and visit with one of the residents. Find out how to plan a visit to AFEV and tune in for an inspiring conversation about supporting military widows and retired couples.  Mentioned in this episode:  Get Jen's new book, Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories: https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters 5-day Deployment Devotional, FREE through Oct. 31 with code deployment23: https://jen-mcdonald.com/product/deployment-devotional/ PILLAR online FREE deployment retreat, Nov. 17-19, 2023  - sign up here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/209167998492858 See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MM109AFEV Connect with the Air Force Enlisted Village:  www.afev.us https://www.facebook.com/AirForceEnlistedVillage/ https://www.instagram.com/afev.us/ https://www.youtube.com/user/AFEVAFEV https://www.linkedin.com/company/afenlistedvillage/ Connect with Brooke McLean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-mclean-1b531329/ Connect with Jen and Milspouse Matters: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Have you ever felt lost after a military move? Are you trying to figure out how to get connected? Do you feel "stuck"? Susan Miller from Just Moved Ministry is here to talk about settling in, plugging in, and finding your new normal after a move...after the boxes are unpacked! As she says, "Don't isolate yourself. Join up, and join in!" She not only understands and validates the feelings of being alone and rootless after a move (she was both a military brat and military wife), but gives practical tips on getting involved and connected. She reminds us, "God will not take you anywhere that He doesn't have a place for you." In 1995, Susan launched Just Moved Ministry out of a desire to offer the encouragement and hope of Jesus Christ to women uprooted by a move. Thousands of uprooted women around the world have contacted Just Moved Ministry for personal encouragement, helpful resources, inspiration, prayer support, an online community, and to find the location of an After the Boxes Are Unpacked study group.  Connect with Just Moved Ministry at justmoved.org and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JustMovedMinistry and Instagram as https://www.instagram.com/justmovedministry/ Get Jen's new book! https://books2read.com/MilspouseMatters This episode's ad:  Munk Pack 1g Sugar Nut & Seed Bars: Gluten-free, keto friendly, plant-based, non-gmo verified, and delicious! Pretzel dark chocolate and other flavors. Use promo code SAVE10MP for 10% off all Munk Pack Nut & Seed Bars, Amazon only, ends 12/31/2023. https://amzn.to/3t1KcUv  Connect: This episode's complete show notes: https://jen-mcdonald.com/show-notes/after-the-boxes-are-unpacked-with-susan-miller-ep-108/ Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

On this episode, I'm discussing the issues that spring up with deployment and reintegration with guest Terri Laurent, a seasoned military spouse who's sharing a ton of wisdom. This episode is a "best of" from waaaay back on Episode 34.  Have you dealt with the emotional build up leading up to deployment? Have you wondered why the service member's homecoming isn't like what you see on TV or the movies? Maybe you're struggling, and you think you're the only one. We talk about preparing your heart and marriage for deployment and reintegration, that time period after the service member returns home from a long separation/deployment.  This is part two of our talk–listen to part one on Episode 31, all about mentoring. Mentioned in this episode:  The 5 Love Languages Military Edition Terri's blog: Even the Birds Believe and business website, First Light Photography Podcast episodes on deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcategory/deployment/ Blog posts about deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/category/deployment/  This episode's ad:  Are you pregnant or a new mama? My daughter who just had her first baby has loved the teas, morning sickness help, and more from Pink Stork. This is a company founded by a military spouse and they have supplements to support fertility, pregnancy, and more! All products are third-party tested. Subscribe and save 20% on your Pink Stork favorites. Learn more---> https://amzn.to/3Lyvwmd Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB *some affiliate links

Can you actually strengthen your marriage through a military deployment or separation? I believe, yes, you can! With mindfulness and intention.   First, I'm sharing some tips from my experiences, then we'll be hearing from other military spouses who've weathered deployments and separations. Mentioned in this episode:  Jen's book launch team - https://jen-mcdonald.com/books/new-book/ Podcast episodes on deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcategory/deployment/ Blog posts about deployment - https://jen-mcdonald.com/podcategory/military-marriage/ This episode's ads:  Please consider supporting, which in turn supports the production of this podcast!  SpaLife: Pamper yourself or get a gift set for a friend. Use the code 20SLOWDOWN in your Amazon cart for 20% off all SpaLife products(Amazon only). https://amzn.to/48iv2dE  Munk Pack 1g Sugar Nut & Seed Bars: Gluten-free, keto friendly, plant-based, non-gmo verified, and delicious! Pretzel dark chocolate and other flavors. Use promo code SAVE10MP for 10% off all Munk Pack Nut & Seed Bars, Amazon only, ends 12/31/2023. https://amzn.to/3t1KcUv  VENO 2-Pack Extra Large Reusable Grocery Bags: Sturdy upright design with reinforced base and carrying handles. Collapsible for easy storage. No more wobbly grocery sacks! https://amzn.to/468BwtW  Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB *some affiliate links

Life as a military spouse is an intricate dance of challenges and uncertainties, along with so many adventures. On this “best of” episode, we revisit one of my favorite interviews. I'm talking to author Lisa Molinari about her military spouse journey, and how she's found solace and strength through humor and processing life through writing.  Lisa refers to herself as a “garden variety military spouse” (which you might disagree with after you listen to her story!). She's never been nominated for Military Spouse of the Year, but her journey is a story of resilience that will resonate with you. Throughout her decades of military life, Lisa learned to find humor in hard and even absurd circumstances. Rather than succumbing to the challenges that come with this lifestyle, she's chosen to seek out the silver lining and share her experiences through laughter. In my conversation with Lisa, she recounted instances where humor became a lifeline during her military spouse journey. With stories from “Pork Chop Envy” to unforeseen deployment hiccups, Lisa reminds us that these crazy things we go through will become the best stories one day! Connect with Lisa: Facebook I Instagram I Twitter I Pinterest Get Lisa's book, The Meat and Potatoes of Life: My True Lit Com Lisa's website:  The Meat and Potatoes of Life This episode's sponsors:  Please consider supporting our sponsors, which in turn supports the production of this podcast! Pink Stork, The Wellness Brand for Women®, was born out of military spouse Amy's desire to help others. Pink Stork offers clean, effective supplements supporting fertility, morning sickness, pregnancy, postpartum, nursing, and more. Prenatal Vitamins:  https://amzn.to/451psuq Labor Prep Tea: https://amzn.to/3DPQAk4 Morning sickness help: https://amzn.to/3QKLgG7 Unbox Me Sunshine Gift for Women  Send a box of sunshine to someone who could use a pick-me-up. Maybe it's yourself! Unboxme self-care gifts for women are carefully curated with high-quality, artisan products sourced from small, family-owned U.S. businesses. Box includes organic herbal tea, fluffy cloud socks, ceramic mug, honey sheet mask, hand-poured candle, beeswax lip balm, a fun floral scrunchie, and a “sending sunshine” card. https://amzn.to/45hdzke Connect: This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMep105  Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB   *some affiliate links

It's PCS move season and it's the perfect time to share some helpful resources for your military family.  Military life usually comes with a guarantee of change, and one of the most inevitable changes is moving. Whether you're a seasoned military family or embarking on your first Permanent Change of Station (PCS), my goal is to provide you with a wealth of information and actionable advice! With personal experience from living in 24 houses, going through 13 PCS moves, with 4 overseas tours in there, all while towing along 4 kids and a dog, I share some of my own tips along with insights gathered from fellow military spouses and listeners on this Best Of episode.  Here's to making your moving journey a little smoother and perhaps even injecting some laughter along the way! ***Find all resources mentioned (and more!) in this exhaustive PCS resource page: https://bit.ly/MMPCS See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMep104 This episode's sponsors:  Extended Stay America for PCS Lodging Needs: https://extendedstayamerica.3qag.net/YMJWr Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs Calling all pet owners! Are you looking for a natural solution to help calm your furry friend? Look no further than Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs. With all-natural and holistic ingredients, their customers rave about the hours of calming relief these delicious soft chews provide for their dogs. Made in the USA and veterinarian approved, you can trust the quality and effectiveness of Well Loved Calming Chews. Whether it's a long flight with your pet or a visit to the vet, these chews can help ease anxiety and stress in most dogs within 30-60 minutes. Say goodbye to restless nights and nervous behavior—it's time for a calmer and happier pup! What sets Well Loved Calming Chews apart is not only their calming effects but also their irresistible taste. Dogs love the delicious soft chews, making it a breeze to give them the relief they deserve. These chews have been a game-changer for our nervous puppers! Order your Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs today. Give your pet the relaxation they deserve with this veterinarian-approved and trusted product. https://amzn.to/3NMpSyE HyperGo Wipes for Your Life Full-Body Rinse-Free Hypoallergenic Biodegradable Bathing Wipes—the ultimate solution for staying refreshed and clean anytime, anywhere. Perfect for post-workout, camping adventures, travel, and your daily life. They're designed to be gentle and safe for all skin types while being environmentally-friendly.  HyperGo Wipes are 12" x 12" unscented wipes that offer you a square foot of cleanliness and comfort. Their unique embossing technique ensures an ultra-soft and durable feel, making every clean-up a breeze. Subscribe and save and save 10% now and up to 15% on future deliveries.  Learn more about HyperGo Wipes: https://amzn.to/44ePv0z ThisWorx Car Vacuum Are you tired of dealing with messy cars, crumbs everywhere, and those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies?  This compact, lightweight, and oh-so-powerful car vacuum is here to save the day. Equipped with a HEPA filter, it's ready to tackle everything from pesky crumbs to those unexpected food spills that happen on-the-go. Say goodbye to messes in your car or truck! Learn more about ThisWorx Car Vacuum: https://amzn.to/43p55FJ Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

On this Best Of episode, we're bringing back some tips for making a move with a baby, all from experienced military spouses! Whether you're relocating stateside or embarking on an overseas adventure, moving with a baby as a military family can be quite a challenge. The logistics of travel, the emotional adjustments, and the added responsibilities of caring for a little one can make the process overwhelming. To help you navigate this exciting yet demanding journey, we've gathered tips from military spouses who've been through it! From flying with a baby to preparing mentally, my hope is that these insights will help you approach your move with confidence and grace. See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEp103 Sponsors: Huggies 99% Pure Water Baby Wipes Introducing Huggies Wipes with 99% Pure Water!  These wipes are specially designed to provide the utmost care for your baby's delicate skin. With 99% purified water and gentle cleansers, they're safe for sensitive skin, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist tested. No harsh ingredients, just pure goodness. No parabens, alcohol, dyes, or elemental chlorine, AND they're accepted by the National Eczema Association. Visit the link for more info and to get an extra 15% off your first subscribe and save order! Discover the convenience, safety, and quality of Huggies Wipes with 99% Pure Water. Give your baby the gentle care they deserve. Get Huggies wipes and the discount here--->  https://amzn.to/3O0sskG HyperGo Wipes for Your Life Full-Body Rinse-Free Hypoallergenic Biodegradable Bathing Wipes—the ultimate solution for staying refreshed and clean anytime, anywhere. Perfect for post-workout, camping adventures, travel, and your daily life. They're designed to be gentle and safe for all skin types while being environmentally-friendly.  HyperGo Wipes are 12" x 12" unscented wipes that offer you a square foot of cleanliness and comfort. Their unique embossing technique ensures an ultra-soft and durable feel, making every clean-up a breeze. Subscribe and save and save 10% now and up to 15% on future deliveries.  Learn more about HyperGo Wipes here---> https://amzn.to/44ePv0z Mentioned in this episode:  Military Kids' Resources: https://jen-mcdonald.com/resources/military-kids-resources/ Cares Airplane Harness for Kids: https://amzn.to/448LCdE Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

On this "Best of" episode, join me and guest Elaine Brye as we delve into the unique challenges faced by parents with children serving in the military. We explore strategies, resources, and personal stories that provide support and guidance to parents on this extraordinary journey. Discover a community that understands what it's like to have a child in the armed forces. Elaine Brye, author of the book Be Safe, Love Mom, shares her hard won wisdom and experience with other military families. She's an “Army brat” turned military wife and the mom of four active duty members—one each in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. She's been through more than 15 deployments with her children and understands the pride, worry, and fear that are the life of a military parent. Elaine talks about what's helped her get through the hard times as a military mom, tips for better communication between in-laws, as well as encouragement and practical ideas for parents whose child is deployed. Get Elaine's book, Be Safe, Love Mom: https://amzn.to/3CQiKuM Connect with Elaine: Be Safe Love Mom- The Sisterhood of Military Moms, Facebook This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEp102 Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs Calling all pet owners! Are you looking for a natural solution to help calm your furry friend? Look no further than Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs. With all-natural and holistic ingredients, their customers rave about the hours of calming relief these delicious soft chews provide for their dogs. Made in the USA and veterinarian approved, you can trust the quality and effectiveness of Well Loved Calming Chews. If your pet is affected by 4th of July fireworks or summer thunderstorms, prepare now! Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs are the solution you've been searching for. And don't miss out on upcoming Prime Day deals on July 11-12. You can also save with their subscribe and save options on Amazon, or by buying 2 or more of selected items. https://amzn.to/3NMpSyE Do You Really Know Your Family? A Fun Family Game Filled with Conversation Starters and Challenges - Great for Kids, Teens and Adults!  Are you looking for a fun and engaging way to bond with your family during those long trips or military moves? Look no further than "Do You Really Know Your Family?" The Ultimate Family Card Game! Find it here: https://amzn.to/3CKSlhT Connect: Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Have you moved with pets? There's always something new to learn when it comes to our furry family members. On this Quick Tips episode, I'm sharing a few resources to help make your military move with pets easier. Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs Calling all pet owners! Are you looking for a natural solution to help calm your furry friend? Look no further than Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs. With all-natural and holistic ingredients, their customers rave about the hours of calming relief these delicious soft chews provide for their dogs. Made in the USA and veterinarian approved, you can trust the quality and effectiveness of Well Loved Calming Chews. If your pet is affected by 4th of July fireworks or summer thunderstorms, prepare now! Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs are the solution you've been searching for. And don't miss out on upcoming Prime Day deals on July 11-12. You can also save with their subscribe and save options on Amazon, or by buying 2 or more of selected items.  Order your Well Loved Calming Chews for Dogs today. Give your pet the relaxation they deserve with this veterinarian-approved and trusted product. https://amzn.to/3NMpSyE Resources mentioned for moving with pets:  The “Patriot Express” - see AMC Pet Travel page International Pet and Travel Association (IPATA) Dogs on Deployment Rich Setzer Memorial Grant Fund offers financial assistance for certain pet expenses for military members (generally E-6 or below. Operation Military Pets from the SPCA, now known as “Apollo's Aid” -  helping military families stay united with their pets.  Operation We Are Here - an extensive list of pet relocation grants and help for military families. Operation Roger - volunteer truckers helping transport animals.  Pet Relocation reimbursements from the DOD - see the latest guidance here (Currently is $550 for CONUS move, up to $2K for OCONUS): “ American Humane Society Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet PACT for Animals State Humane Societies (check with your state) Delta Airlines' guidance for year-round shipment of animals and American Airlines PetEmbark program Amtrak pet transport Find even more help with your PCS move with my extensive list of PCS resources. Click on the "moving with pets" tab for more! Connect: This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMmovingwithpets Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  PCS move resources: https://bit.ly/MMPCS Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

We've hit the 100 episodes milestone of the Milspouse Matters podcast! I can't thank you enough for the continued support throughout this podcast's journey so far. And don't miss the BIG GIVEAWAY I'm throwing to celebrate, including some gifts provided by my amazing publisher, W. Brand Publishing. Find it on my Instagram and Facebook (links below). Note: this giveaway expires June 25, 2023.  Sponsored ad: Check out Avocado Huggers, an eco-friendly solution for saving your avocados. Avocado Huggers not only keeps your avocados fresh, but they also care about the environment. These adorable, easy-to-use alternatives to plastic wrap for preserving avocados were created by a woman and inventor owned company. Thousands of 5-star reviews, a lifetime warranty, and dishwasher safe! Celebrate National Avocado Day on July 31st by investing in an Avocado Hugger! Get yours here with my affiliate link (this link does not cost you more, but helps to support my podcast and other work): https://amzn.to/3Cu0ZkT On this episode, I reminisce about my podcast journey and the amazing guests and support we've had over nearly 5 years and 100 episodes, along with the global reach of the Milspouse Matters podcast. During this time, I've also juggled family life, run multiple podcasts, and kept a full-time job from home. Looking Back and Looking Ahead We discuss the challenges and breaks necessary due to COVID-19, family tragedies, and other life events. I've received so much amazing help from friends and podcast pros Lana and Tara, and now my daughter Anna who is working on some behind-the-scenes projects.  I encourage potential podcasters to take the leap, despite the work it takes to keep a podcast running. Future plans: Introducing more guests, changing the format, and always focusing on encouraging and supporting military spouses. As always, I invite your feedback and topic suggestions, and I would be so grateful if you left a 5-star review on your favorite podcast app to help support the show. I couldn't do this without you, dear listeners, and I am forever grateful for YOU.  And remember….you are brave, you are strong, and you've got this. Happy 100 episodes! Connect: This episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEp100 Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

After dealing with anxiety and panic attacks as a young adult, things came to a head for Marine Corps spouse Erin after some big military life changes. She was physically ill, having daily panic attacks, and struggling to leave her house when she realized she needed to do something more than what she'd always done: try to cope alone. On this episode, you'll hear from Erin, a.k.a. “The Short Wife,” about her journey to finding the help and resources she needed.  Erin says: “I didn't know what was going on with me. I didn't feel like myself…but I wanted to believe it wasn't real. And I didn't know how to ask for help.” Erin has documented her journey on her website and Instagram, talking honestly about anxiety and other mental health issues. She's known for being open, authentic, and warm and also brings humor to tough issues.  She shares some of her favorite mental health resources and books, but most of all wants you to know that, if you're dealing with anxiety too, you're not alone. She says,  “You are not alone in your struggles. There's always someone who can relate to you, and there's a whole community to support you.”  Connect with Erin:  Erin's site, The Short Wife www.theshortwife.com Find her on social media as @theshortwife See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MM99anxiety Resources mentioned in this episode: Online Therapy Covered by TRICARE: Telemind https://telemind.com/ Accounts that specialize in anxiety help on Instagram: @anxiety_wellbeing https://www.instagram.com/anxiety_wellbeing/ @therapywithmaggielpc https://www.instagram.com/therapywithmaggielpc/ @theanxietydoctor https://www.instagram.com/theanxietydoctor/ Find more resources on Erin's Instagram account! Books The Upward Spiral by Alex Korb https://amzn.to/3HzAFsn Unwinding Anxiety by Judson Brewer https://amzn.to/3AN3w8K ----- Jen's site: https://bit.ly/jenmcd Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

On this Quick Tips episode, we're talking about helping teens navigate a parent's deployment. So often, deployment resources are geared towards younger children, and while that's of course important, and I've also covered it before on several episodes, today we are focusing on our teenagers. This info is from part of a talk I gave during the amazing and supportive PILLAR deployment retreat in fall 2022 about helping your teens—and yourself!—through a parent's deployment.  Teens are so amazing, challenging, and wonderful, all at the same time. Helping our teens get through the deployment of a parent is a privilege, but it's a time that we can use all the help we can get. Our military family went through multiple deployments, and one of my claims to fame is getting through a year-long deployment of my husband when all four of my kids were teenagers at the same time. If I can do it, you can do it, too! We'll talk about some practical tips for helping teens navigate this tough time, as well as finding support for YOU. This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! Visit Jen's shop here: https://bit.ly/MMPodshop See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMPteensdeployment  Resources mentioned in this episode:  Grab your free PDF download about deployment and teens: https://bit.ly/teensdeployment Milspouse Matters Episode 24 - Walking with Young Children Through a Parent's Deployment: https://bit.ly/41m9ZmC Military Kids Resources: https://bit.ly/MMPmilkids Military OneSource call 800-342-9647 or live chat on their site: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/  ---- Jen's site:  Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB

Wendy Hively shares a behind the scenes look at how she started her successful business, Charliemadison Originals, while also working full-time as a scientist. As a longtime Navy spouse who's now the wife of a retiree, Wendy has a lot of wisdom about work/life balance, how she pivoted when the military took her family to Japan, avoiding burnout, the ways that entrepreneurship can be a great path for military spouses and the lessons she learned, while also being realistic about the hard work it requires. As Wendy reminds us, you don't get a prize for working all the time! I so enjoyed talking with Wendy, and I think you'll be inspired to take a look at your own work/life balance, whether you're an entrepreneur or not. Connect with Wendy and Charliemadison Originals at https://charliemadisonoriginals.com/ and on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/charliemadisonoriginals/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charliemadisonoriginals  See this episode's complete show notes: https://bit.ly/MMEpisode97  -  - - - This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! See Jen's shop here: https://bit.ly/MMPodshop ---- Jen's site:  Military spouse resources: https://bit.ly/MMPodresources  Jen's blog: https://bit.ly/MMPodblog  Digital downloads: https://bit.ly/MMPoddownloads  Books: https://bit.ly/MMPodbooks  ---- Socials: Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/MMPInsta  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MMPodFacebook  Follow on TikTok: https://bit.ly/MMPodTikTok  Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/MMPodTwitter  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/MMPodYouTube Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/CMilspouseFB  ---- Your opinion matters! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here with my listener survey: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

On this Quick Tips episode, I'm answering a question a listener submitted for advice about getting established at a new duty station, even if it's not a place you would have chosen to live or you don't think it's the greatest location. On Episode 93 I talked about how to cope when you hate your duty station, so be sure to go check out that longer episode! I'm sharing some of my experience as well as some input from my Christian Military Spouses Facebook group.  Mentioned in this episode:  When the PCS Dust Settles: How Do You Start Over Again? Military Wild: Find Your Community in the Great Outdoors Episode 50 3 Things I Need to Feel Settled After Every PCS See this episode's complete show notes. This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. **Use code STUDY15** for 15% off this guide! See Jen's shop here.  Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Your opinion matters! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here with my listener survey: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

On this episode we're talking about some hot topics: managing and saving your money with my amazing guest Kate Horrell.  Kate brings a sensibility to managing your finances, along with a deep understanding of military life since she has lived it herself. We cover topics like setting a spending plan, ways to save money, ideas for saving and investing when you're living on one income, getting out of debt, how to save up for a house when you're living in military housing, and so much more. She also answers some of your questions about finances that you submitted on Instagram. This is a don't-miss episode! Whether you feel like you've got a handle on your finances or not, trust me, you'll come away with some new insight and tips from Kate! Kate is offering a new amazing resource that has been years in the making. Check out the Everything-You-Need-Binder, a godsend for military families! If you've ever worried about what you'd do in a family emergency and need to give instructions to grandparents or caregivers or simply wish to get your life more organized, this is for you.  Get the Everything-You-Need-Binder here! Grab these FREE guides from Kate: Ultimate PCS Packout Guide Comprehensive Military Separation Checklist Military Scholarships for Service Members, Veterans, Spouses, and Kids Comprehensive Military Retirement Checklist See this episode's complete show notes. This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. **Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! See Jen's shop here.  Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! I want to hear from you! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

On this episode, we're talking about planning for your overseas military move, both some practical tips as well as preparing yourself mentally for this big change in not only where you live, but also likely a bit of a culture shock. It's fitting that as I recorded this, I'd just returned from a long trip to Ireland, and that looong overseas flight was still fresh in my mind! My own family went through over a dozen military moves, four of them overseas. I'm sharing some lessons learned as well as some of my hard-won tips as you prepare for your move overseas! Resources mentioned:  Jen's Ultimate PCS Move Resource List (click the button at the top for specific overseas tips!) Planning Your Overseas PCS Lessons Learned from Living Overseas 11 Things to Know Before Your Overseas PCS Move Milspouse Matters Episode 59: Make the Most of Your Military Travel Benefits Can a Military Family Move Overseas Without Command Sponsorship? Other episodes about moving overseas:  Episode 86: A Military Spouse Overseas with Julie Tully Episode 87: Answering Listener Questions Episode 13: Overseas Living with Angie Drake Episode 1: Overseas and Back Again with Tara Howes Military resources:  It's Your Move document offered by TRANSCOM Plan My Move from Military OneSource my.move.mil, the new system from USTRANSCOM to support the relocation of families during PCS (currently by invitation only) This episode is sponsored by my new book study guide, You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions. **Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this guide! See Jen's shop here.  Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! I want to hear from you! What do you want to hear on the podcast? What do you love? What would you like to see changed? Sound off here: https://bit.ly/MMlistenersurvey

Looking for your help! Please take this short survey about the podcast and let me know your opinion. *Brand new!! You Are Not Alone Book Study Guide and Discussion Questions Use code STUDY15 for 15% off this digital download! You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse - the book On this episode, we're talking about how to cope when you hate where you're stationed with the military.  First, I answer a couple of your questions, including what's been my favorite place the military sent us and also my favorite/least favorite things about being a military spouse. if you don't like where you're stationed, it can be a challenging time, but let's talk about:  Every place can't be your absolute favorite, and you might outright dislike where you're living. Start small and focus on one thing you can find that's positive.  How to avoid the negative spiral. Remember this is not forever.  Keep your eyes open for potential friends—they're what make the tough assignments worth it! Watching out for the pitfalls of the comparison trap.  How to get yourself out there, and taking care of yourself.  See this episode's complete show notes.  More resources:  Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

On this episode, I'm thrilled to be speaking with Verenice Castillo, the founder of the Military Spouse Advocacy Network (MSAN). If you're not familiar with MSAN, their motto is to Educate, Empower, Support, and they certainly do that! Verenice and I talk about the importance of connecting with your military spouse community as well as understanding that you're not alone in this military life. Find others who've been where you've headed and who can share their experiences with you. And if you're in a place of being more experienced, learn how you can connect with MSAN and become a mentor or volunteer. Thank you, Verenice and MSAN, for the work you're continuing to do and for being such a shining light in the military community! See this episode's complete show notes and resources mentioned. Connect with MSAN:  Military Spouse Advocacy Network website Facebook Twitter Instagram More resources:  Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Have you ever wondered the best process for sending a military care package? Want some help in creating your own or are you looking for a curated care package to send to your service member? On this episode, I'm joined by Hero Care Packages CEO Jack Wray, and we're discussing all things military care packages! Some topics we discuss:  The story behind Hero Care Packages (which features veteran curated military care packges!) Tips for DIY military care packages The benefit and process of sending a care package with Hero Care Packages: types of boxes offered, how the process works, subscriptions, where they ship How to watch out for care package scams (yes, they exist) And more! See this episode's complete show notes and all resources mentioned.  Connect with Hero Care Packages: Hero Care Packages website Facebook  Twitter Instagram  Tiktok Pinterest Make sure to follow the Milspouse Matters Instagram to enter the giveaway for one free care package, and use code milspousematters for 20% off your first care package at Hero Care Packages! The PILLAR deployment retreat is coming Nov 4-6, 2022!! I'll be talking about helping your teens through a parent's deployment. Along with many other military spouses and military life experts, we're all here to help you power through deployment. It's all online and completely free, so grab your tickets here: PILLAR digital deployment retreat. Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Join the Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

We talk about the topic of deployment a lot on this podcast, and with good reason. It's such a challenging time for military members and their spouses, families, or significant others. I've been SO excited to bring you this episode, as Becky Hoy and Joanna Guldin-Noll are truly experts on this topic, and they're sharing their insight and encouragement with you. Becky and Joanna are the cohosts of PILLAR, the totally free online retreat for deployment countdowns, happening Nov 4-6! Becky is the Founder of Brave Crate, the deployment countdown box for military spouses, and Joanna is the writer behind one of the largest military spouse lifestyle blogs online, Jo, My Gosh! Becky and Joanna share: What they learned about themselves during deployment Their top tips for making the most of deployment When it's hard, and thriving isn't really happening The vision behind the PILLAR deployment retreat and how you can connect See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned. Here's how to connect! Get your FREE ticket to the upcoming PILLAR deployment retreat at www.pillardeploymentretreat.com PILLAR @pillardeploymentretreat on Facebook and Instagram Jo, My Gosh! Joanna on Facebook and Instagram BraveCrate BraveCrate on Facebook and Instagram Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Let's talk about homeschooling in the military, as well as a brand-new podcast created to support military homeschooling families! Since all my kids are now grown, one thing you might not know about me is that we were a homeschooling family for a couple of decades and loved that time with our four kids. I was also the managing editor for a large homeschooling magazine for a couple of years! On this episode, I'm talking to Crystal Niehoff, the host of the Military Homeschool podcast. And bonus! Visit the show notes, and I'll share a few of my very favorite homeschooling resources. Guest Crystal Niehoff has a lot of wisdom and is a long-time homeschooler, so if you've ever wondered about homeschooling or simply need some encouragement for your homeschooling journey, this episode is for you! Crystal shares how her family began homeschooling, some of their best memories, how homeschooling is a great fit with military life, and all about her new podcast, the Military Homeschool Podcast. See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned. Thanks to CodeWizardsHQ for sponsoring this episode. Give your child programming knowledge, skills, and the confidence to thrive in a digital world through fun and effective live, online coding classes. For kids ages 8-18, you'll find beginning basics to their innovative internship program. Visit CodeWizardsHQ to learn more and get a 30% military discount.  Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application. Thanks to Wits & Weights podcast for being a sponsor of this episode. Hosted by Philip Pape, Wits & Weights examines the evidence and turns those into specific actions to implement so you can perform better in the gym, at work, and in life. Listen to Wits & Weights using your favorite podcast app or at witsandweights.com/podcast and get your FREE Protein Power Transformation Program at witsandweights.com, a 14-day habit transformation to help fix your nutrition and get more protein.

A military marriage is not the same as a civilian marriage, and conventional wisdom doesn't always apply. From advice like you have to have a weekly date night to you must communicate about everything, how does this work in keeping your military marriage strong? It just doesn't apply if you're apart a lot or have recently moved and don't have resources like childcare.  I'm sharing some tips from our 34 years of marriage. While we're not perfect (no one is!), we've learned a few things and I hope they will help you grow your own marriage!  See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned. Thanks to CodeWizardsHQ for sponsoring this episode. Give your child programming knowledge, skills, and the confidence to thrive in a digital world through fun and effective live, online coding classes. For kids ages 8-18, you'll find beginning basics to their innovative internship program. Visit CodeWizardsHQ to learn more and get a 30% military discount.  Listen to the Christian Milspouse Podcast Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

Welcome back to a new season! On this episode, I'm answering listener questions and talking about what's coming. Some topics we cover:    Is it ok to call yourself a milspouse or military spouse? What's been the hardest (and best) part of being a military spouse? How much should I share with my spouse when they're deployed? I feel nervous about homecoming. Is this normal? How to stay sane when facing a PCS move after just having a baby? Do you have any insight on living in Bahrain? Did you ever feel torn between personal happiness/priorities and spouse's job/career change? Any advice on how to handle feelings of resentment starting to build? Do you have any tips to keep our relationship strong during an overseas PCS? Is it normal to feel jealous of the relationship my spouse has with the Army? I feel second place. Is it normal to be sad about going from dating for 2 years to joining military life and missing my old life? How do I prepare for an overseas PCS move? I'm overwhelmed! See this episode's show notes and all resources mentioned.  Thanks to CodeWizardsHQ for sponsoring this episode. Give your child programming knowledge, skills, and the confidence to thrive in a digital world through fun and effective live, online coding classes. For kids ages 8-18, you'll find beginning basics to their innovative internship program. Visit CodeWizardsHQ to learn more and get a 30% military discount.  Follow the Christian Milspouse Podcast Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application.

On this episode, I'm talking to Julie Tully, the author of the upcoming book, Dispatches from the Cowgirl: Through the Looking Glass with a Navy Diplomat's Wife.  Julie is the spouse of a Foreign Service Officer and has spent the last 18 years living overseas in different countries in Africa and Europe. In fact, Julie recorded this episode from Italy, right smack in the middle of a PCS move! She's a cowgirl-turned-nomadic Navy spouse and she writes about life, culture, and the places where they intersect. Julie and I cover a lot of this topics in this episode, including her family's multiple tours overseas, how it's felt being “America” to the people they've lived among, her life as the spouse of a Foreign Service Officer, tips for moving overseas, the story behind her upcoming book, their soon return to the U.S., and how her son—who's never lived in the U.S.— feels about it all! See the complete show notes for this episode here. Connect with Julie at her site: Julie Tully Find Julie on social media: Facebook Instagram Get Jen's book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Have a topic idea for the Milspouse Matters podcast or know someone who'd be a great guest? Send me a note or fill out our guest application. Note that all requests right now will be put on a waiting list for late 2022-2023! This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

On this episode, I'm talking to Jen Pasquale from Pride & Grit.  Jen is a 15-year active-duty Army spouse, mom of two, and champion for seasoned military spouses. In 2018, Jen founded Pride & Grit as a support community, resource hub, and as of 2021, host of an annual personal development retreat for seasoned military spouses. As a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, Jen also offers identity coaching using the CliftonStrengths assessment. As a coach, Jen helps spouses develop pride in their unique talents while cultivating the grit to use those talents and lean into an identity beyond service. We talk about her work and support for seasoned military spouses, including their struggles, how often we keep our problems to ourselves so we appear strong, what others misunderstand about “senior spouses,” and ways you can begin to prepare for the end of your servicemember's career and take care of yourself. Jen talks about Pride & Grit and how it came about. She says, “A lot of us have been around a long time, and we've weathered a lot of hard things in military life. A lot of us were tired. It's not that we didn't love being a service family, but we were tired. And I noticed that people didn't have a space to be tired that was supportive for them.” If you can relate, this is the episode for you! Be sure to also check out the yearly Evolve Retreat for seasoned military spouses.  Connect with Pride & Grit and learn more about the Evolve Retreat. Find Pride & Grit on social media: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn See the complete show notes for this episode. Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

This week, I'm talking to Mary Monrose and Candus Griffin, military spouses, mothers, and hosts of the Shine Sis podcast. I first connected with them on Instagram, where I saw their posts and loved the positive message they were sharing. When I realized they were also military spouses, I knew we had to talk! About Shine Sis: It's hard trying to find your purpose in life, especially when you are consumed with always putting your family first. Join Military spouses Candus Griffin and Mary Monrose, as they share life experiences and interview guests who can help you be successful in your journey. If you ever felt like your life was moving without direction or if you felt limited by your circumstances, then this podcast is for you.  You'll hear how Candus and Mary met and decided to start a podcast, some of their tips for deployment, finding their own place and purpose in the military space, and what's coming for Shine Sis as they look to give back to other women. You'll surely relate to some of their story! Listen to Shine Sis here or in your favorite podcast player. Connect with Shine Sis on Instagram: @shine_sis_podcast See the complete show notes for this episode. Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

Whether you're moving stateside or overseas, making a move with a new baby can be a challenge. Get some tips from experienced military spouses! I was asked about this on social media, and here are some of my tips along with input from other military spouses. We talk about:  Flying with a baby Tips for cross-country travel Preparing mentally Giving yourself plenty of grace! See my extensive list of resources for moving with military kids, including babies!  Find the complete show notes for this episode.  Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! This episode is sponsored by USA Girl Scouts Overseas. For families on the move, Girl Scouts is a constant, allowing girls to pick up right where she left off: benefiting from the single best leadership development experience for girls in the world. Their virtual troop is a great way for girls to learn new skills, meet girls from all over the world, and have fun no matter where they are or where they move. Learn more at USA Girl Scouts Overseas!

Here's the second installment of the study of my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse, that we've been doing in the Christian Military Spouse Facebook group. As mentioned on the last episode, I decided to share the audio from my talks there on the podcast, and this is the week 2 study covering readings 5-7.  If you'd like to join in the ongoing book study and discussion, join us in the Christian Military Spouses Facebook group! (link below)  Don't have the book? Get the new, updated 2022 edition here: You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse. If you have the first edition from 2016, that will work fine too! We're covering the themes of comparisons, discontentment with military life, and admitting when we need help. Sometimes military spouses need the reminder that we don't get a medal for being the toughest and doing everything on our own! Another pitfall can be comparing our situation to our civilian friends and family and wishing we had it differently. We're going to talk about not comparing, ways to cultivate contentment, and the importance of not struggling alone and finding that community we all need.  Common question: Do you have to be religious to read this book?  While this book is written from the perspective of faith, I think there is so much that pertains to any military spouse! Click here for the complete show notes for this episode, including study questions and Scriptures mentioned. Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

In the Christian Military Spouses group, we've been doing a book study of my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouses, and I've been talking via video each week there. I'm sharing the audio from those talks over the coming weeks. This is the week 1 study, going over Days 1-4 in the book.  (Note: If you'd like to join in the ongoing book study and discussion, join us here: Christian Military Spouses Facebook group.) Don't have the book? Get the new, updated 2022 edition here: https://amzn.to/3rBxJDW If you have the first edition from 2016, that will work fine, too! Grab your favorite beverage, find a comfy spot, and let's visit. I want this to feel like we're having coffee together. (OR you can listen on the go—I totally get the busy milspouse life!) On this installment, we're discussing the intro and Days 1-4, with the themes of coming to terms with military spouse life, giving up control, and finding our identity in Christ. If you don't have the book/haven't read it yet, I think this week's talk will still be of interest to you as a military spouse.  Common question: do you have to be religious to read this book?  Answer: While this book is written from the perspective of a Christian military spouse, I think there is so much that pertains to any military spouse! See the complete show notes for this episode here, including questions and Scriptures mentioned.  Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

Whether you're a new or longtime military spouse, a sudden deployment can throw you into a tailspin. If you're facing an unexpected deployment of your spouse, this episode is for you. We're talking about ways to cope, how to connect with others (even if you don't think you need to), some conventional wisdom that may or may not apply to you, permission to handle deployment in a way that works best for you, and tons of resources for you as a military spouse, your kids, and even your extended family members like in-laws and parents.  Remember: you don't have to do this alone! FIND ALL RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE HERE.  Need more support and want to connect with other military and first responder spouses? The InDependent Wellness Summit is next week, March 7-11. It's all online! Register here---> register. General admission is FREE.  Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

Guest Jennifer Barnhill shares the vision behind Partners in Promise, the challenges and barriers EFMP (Exceptional Family Member Program) families face, especially as pertains to special education for military children, the results of their 2021 survey findings, and what Partners in PROMISE does to advocate for military families. They offer so many resources, including checklists, videos, a podcast, ways to get involved, and so much more. Thank you, Jennifer, for allowing us to see a tiny bit of all that Partners in PROMISE does and helping us understand more about this important topic. And if you're feeling alone, please connect, as there is no need to walk this path by yourself! Whether your own military family is ever in need of EFMP or special education services or not, knowing more about these programs and passing the word along to other families is so important. Learn more about Partners in Promise, see the infographic and other resources mentioned in this episode. **Register for the InDependent Wellness Summit: Flourish (All online) here---> register. General admission is FREE.  Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

It's a new year, and by now many of us have already given up on those New Year's resolutions! And you tell yourself, why even bother setting goals when you've just moved, are about to move, or find yourself in the middle of a deployment or some other change? Is it even worth setting personal goals for yourself when the demands of the military always take precedence? But wait a minute! Your goals and dreams are still worth chasing, military spouse. So let's talk about some ways to be kind to yourself, set realistic goals, move forward a little bit at a time, and even embrace your Plan B when needed. Resources mentioned in this episode. Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

I've had a lot of requests for more Navy spouse interviews, so I'm happy to bring to you my talk with Chelsea Davis from The Submerged Life! I first discovered the Submerged Life through their funny memes on Instagram and knew I had to reach out to these great ladies.  Chelsea Davis, Meagan Guise, and Kaileigh Lear are Navy spouses and founders of the blog "The Submerged Life." As newly-christened submarine spouses, it didn't take them long to realize the resources they needed weren't as readily available as they'd like… and so it all began! They launched The Submerged Life in 2019 and have since built a community for sub spouses and families from around the world. Written by spouses for spouses, their blog is your guide to living and loving the submarine life. Whether or not you're a sub spouse, I think you'll be encouraged by Chelsea's perspective! Connect with them at www.thesubmergedlife.com and on social media: Instagram: @TheSubmergedLife Facebook: @TheSubmergedLife See the complete show notes for this episode. Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

Are you torn between traveling to see your extended family and staying put to create your own holiday memories? Are you spending the holidays without your spouse due to deployment, training, or a remote assignment? Have you just moved and don't know a soul and are missing all your family and friends? Let's talk about it! On this episode, I discuss your first holiday season as a military spouse, managing expectations, the pull of “going home” and the importance of creating your own traditions, getting through the holidays during deployment, and some of my favorite holiday memories as a military family! I took a poll in my Christian military spouse Facebook group, and I'm sharing what other military families do during the holiday season as well.  See the complete show notes for this episode. Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

November is National Adoption Awareness Month, and this week's guest is sharing why military families can make amazing foster and adoptive families. In the U.S., nearly half a million children are in the foster care system on any given day. While those numbers are staggering, there's much that we can do to help, whether it's becoming a foster or adoptive family ourselves or supporting those who do. Does it seem like fostering and adoption wouldn't work for a military family? If you've ever been interested in this topic, you'll want to listen to this episode! Courtney Woodruff discusses some of the challenges of fostering and adoption as a military family but also how it can work out so amazingly well. She talks about how to start the process and some of her own experiences. She and her husband have fostered ten children and recently adopted a baby, so she is right in the thick of it! We're also talking about Courtney's new books for children. Some of the proceeds go to support foster and adoptive families! See the complete show notes for this episode. Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

This week, I'm talking to Air Force spouse and missionary Megan Brown! Megan B. Brown is a seasoned military spouse and military missionary. She is the Military Liaison for the Speak Up Conference Global Missions Military Scholarship and the 2019-Armed Forces Insurance Robins AFB Military Spouse of the Year. She is passionate about military mission work and teaching and preaching about Jesus in and out of the local church. Her Bible study, Summoned: Answering a Call to the Impossible, published by Moody Publishers in Chicago, released in May 2021. She lives in south Mississippi with her husband, Keith, and their energetic kiddos. She is a Bible teacher, speaker, and freelance writer. To learn more or connect with Megan, visit meganbbrown.com. On this episode, we talk about Megan's new book, Summoned and how the study came about. Megan also shares her heart for military families, her work with Cru Military, and how has God met her in some dark places, and the hope you can also find. As she says, the gospel wrecked her, but through her experiences and finding strength in Christ, it also caused her to see herself in God's greater plan. She reminds us, “From cover to cover of the Bible, women have been involved.” See this episode's complete show notes.  Jen's "favorite things" this week:  Blackberries All Year: picture book by military spouse Courtney Woodruff. Part of the proceeds support fostering and adoptive parents! Jen is on the Call to Marriage podcast this week, talking about deployment and the holidays! Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

On this episode, I'm talking to Becky Hoy, who is a U.S. Army military spouse of 10 years and the Founder of Brave Crate- the deployment countdown box for military spouses, and co-host of PILLAR- the digital retreat for deployment countdowns. She shares about both those ventures, and talks about how she learned to make the most of the time apart from her husband vs. just wishing for it to be over. Be prepared to get a brand new perspective and encouragement for the difficulties of deployment. Becky tells us how her perspective shifted from “counting every minute to making every minute count” and some of her experiences as she's been through multiple deployments. The willingness to embrace change and the unknown is so important to getting through life as a military spouse, and Becky talks candidly of her struggles through this rollercoaster ride, while also reminding us that it is possible to thrive while your spouse is away.  >>> TAKE NOTE! SPECIAL OFFER FROM BECKY! USE THE CODE MILSPOUSE20 FOR 20% OFF YOUR FIRST BRAVE CRATE PLUS GET FREE TICKETS TO THE PILLAR DIGITAL RETREAT FOR DEPLOYMENT COUNTDOWNS, WHICH IS COMING UP FROM NOV 12-14.  Learn more:  Brave Crate  PILLAR Deployment Retreat See the complete show notes for this episode.  Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

Welcome to this short bonus episode! I hear from a lot of you about the topic of friendship, and I know how difficult it can be to find friends as a military spouse. It's not easy to roll into a new location and not know a soul. On this short episode, I'm sharing some thoughts about how to be a friend, how to find friends, and the friends every military spouse needs, along with reading a brief excerpt from my book You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse. See the complete show notes for this episode.  Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which was created in 2012 by AAFMA, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association. The goal of Spouselink is to support, inform, and inspire military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org. We've had a lot of requests for a National Guard spouse to come on the podcast, so this is the episode for you! First, I'm sharing some ideas from National Guard spouses from my Facebook group for ways to connect with other spouses and the military community. Next, I'm talking to National Guard spouse Julie Provost, who you may know from her popular blog Soldier's Wife, Crazy Life. She's sharing her perspective as their family transitioned from active duty to National Guard, ways to connect with the greater military community, common misconceptions about National Guard families, plus so much more! See the complete show notes for this episode.  Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which was created in 2012 by AAFMA, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association. The goal of Spouselink is to support, inform, and inspire military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org. The guest for this episode is the amazing and insightful Trevor Romain, who you may remember from episode 63 when we talked about his work with military kids.  While we were speaking on that episode, we briefly touched on the topic of grief and his work with children, including terminally ill children, over the past decades. We're so blessed to have him back to discuss this important topic. Even though grief is an uncomfortable subject, it's also universal. We will all face it someday. But as Trevor says, we don't have to forget those we love. We continue to carry them with us and live in a way that honors their memory. And, “The pain doesn't really go away...you just learn to make friends with it. “ Learn more: See the complete show notes for this episode. The Trevor Romain Company: What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies?  **Use my code MILSPOUSEMATTERS for 15% off any purchase at the Trevor Romain Company! Connect with the Trevor Romain Company:  Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube  Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

It's so important to feel connected as a military spouse! We're talking about that today with Lizann Lightfoot and hearing about her brand new book, Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses, a collection of letters for military spouses straight from her heart and experience. You don't want to miss this! On this episode, we talk about the process and her vision behind this book, as well as many other military life topics. I am certain you will be encouraged by the wisdom and warmth Lizann shares, no matter where you are on the journey of military life. Connect with Lizann Find the complete show notes for this episode here. Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode!

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which was created in 2012 by AAFMA, the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association. The goal of Spouselink is to support, inform, and inspire military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org. Someone wise once told me many years ago, What kind of marriage do you want in 30 years? What you do now determines what it will be then. I'm so glad I took that advice to heart.  Any military spouse who's been in military life for a minute or two realizes that military marriage comes with a lot of stress points. During one particularly tough time in our marriage, I knew something had to change. But darnit, the only thing I had control over was…me. I had to begin looking at life differently and not try to change my spouse. It wasn't working, anyway! (As a control freak, this is still an ongoing lesson!) On this episode, I'm sharing a few tips from over 30 years of marriage. Marriage takes work, but it should also be fun! If you're not laughing together regularly, something is off. Yes, even in the hard times, humor is so necessary! See the “scorpion story” I reference here: Strengthening Your Military Marriage. For big marriage issues, of course there are no easy answers. Do you need some support? I have a lot of podcast episodes and blog posts about military marriage that I hope will be some help to you. If you need counseling and support, contact your military chaplain or connect with Military OneSource for free, confidential counseling.  Domestic Abuse Hotline—call 800.799.SAFE (7233) or visit their website. Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram Christian Military Spouse Facebook Group Find the complete Milspouse Matters show archive and listen to every episode! Click here for the complete show notes for this episode.

This episode of the Milspouse Matters podcast is sponsored by SpouseLink, which supports, informs, and inspires military spouses. Learn more at Spouselink.org. I'm so excited to be talking about Milkid Mailkit™, a pen pal program for military children, with one of the program's co-founders, Brunella Costagliola. Brunella and her husband Michael Gosselin created Milkid Mailkit™ to encourage and foster international friendship for military children through the art of letter writing.  The season of COVID and her own children being in front of screens more than ever with schooling going online made Brunella realize her kids' need for more connection. With beautiful stationery created by world-renowned creator and longtime Disney theme park designer and illustrator, Valerio Mazzoli, and their own inspiration of connecting military kids as penpals, Milkid Mailkit™  was born. You may recognize the symbol of military kids—the dandelion. Every illustration captures the adventurous spirit, inspiring diversity, and barrier-breaking horizons of military life. See the show notes for this episode. Learn more about Milkid Mailkit™. Get my book, You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

Welcome to the latest Listener Q & A episode! Just a reminder, you can send questions to me on the Milspouse Matters Instagram or email me for possible inclusion in the next round! Today, we're covering questions like:  What are your thoughts on planning weddings in the military? Or just trying to plan anything as a milspouse with this unpredictable lifestyle? (or is it not really as unpredictable as it seems) How and when should you apply for military base housing?  Sometimes the areas of OPSEC and security measures seem to be approached differently by a lot of military spouse influencers. I guess I'm just wondering what good practices would be. Also, any suggestions for a wife who can't really talk to her husband about work because he's Intel? Finding military spouse connections in Washington, D.C.  Advice for making friends in big cities when you don't live on base and aren't established yet. Tips on helping your marriage during a tough deployment.  Homeschooling military kids.  And more! Click here for the show notes and resources mentioned. Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram

In light of what's going on in Afghanistan, I thought it was important to address it. We're a proud military family, and our son is now also serving on active duty. While most of us agree that it was time to be done in Afghanistan, we deserved a better ending. You know who else deserved a better ending? The people of Afghanistan and our allies.  I'm hearing from a lot of military spouses. A common theme is “We're angry.” They feel that their sacrifices mean nothing right now. They feel betrayed by their own country. On this episode, I talk about our own family's experiences with Afghanistan and we honor those who were wounded or died there. I'm also sharing some ways you can help right now and resources to take care of yourself as a veteran, military member, or military family member. Thanks to Scott Deluzio of The DriveOn Podcast for allowing me to share the tribute to his brother who was killed in Afghanistan.  Connect with those on the ground helping right now:  No One Left Behind Save Our Allies The USO Keeping Our Promise International Institute of St. Louis LIRS Connect Women for Women Save the Children Resources for military families and veterans:  Yellow Ribbon Box Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 Confidential help from Military OneSource: chat or call toll-free 1-800-342-9647 Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) Program Be Safe, Love Mom Deployment resources:  The Milspouse Matters podcast You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse 5 Promises of God to Hold on to When Your Spouse Deploys 15 Bible Verses for Military Spouses Facing Deployment or Separation Free 5-day deployment devotional Click here for show transcript and complete show notes.  Connect with Milspouse Matters on Instagram