Skip to main content
Celebrate the Struggle

Celebrate the Struggle

By Jennifer Hobbs

Life is full of struggles and challenges, some of which try to tear us down. But we stand back up when we fall down. We become stronger and sometimes more determined. On this show we are going to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. We are going to talk about topics that may be difficult since most will have stigmas that exist in our society. This show will overcome the fears of those stigmas to open up, be vulnerable, and chat about the struggles and where life has brought us.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

"It's okay to not be okay."- Sarah Otto helping those on the home front.

Celebrate the StruggleFeb 04, 2022

00:00
28:51
"I couldn't keep the mask on any longer. I had to get on a mission of self-care." -Scott Grotbo

"I couldn't keep the mask on any longer. I had to get on a mission of self-care." -Scott Grotbo

Scott Grotbo joins me on Celebrate the Struggle today. After 28 years of service in the Air Force, this retired veteran now owns and leads a veteran retreat called Moraine View R & R where he is working to provide a space for veterans to come for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual strengthening. He didn't get there easily though folks. He had to stumble and fall first to realize that he had to help himself before he could help anyone else. He identified his challenges and what he wanted to do and went on to help others help themselves. https://www.facebook.com/MoraineviewRR https://www.moraineviewretreat.org moraineviewretreat@gmail.com Watch this episode on my Youtube channel https://youtu.be/md1jmwKmJZ4
Apr 27, 202340:48
Celebrate the Struggle with Author Emily Jacobs, Author of "Live Your Life For You, Not Your Mom"
Feb 07, 202337:04
Retrain your brain: Jennifer & Del Saam chat about anger

Retrain your brain: Jennifer & Del Saam chat about anger

Del Saam joins me again on Celebrate the Struggle to chat about the affects of PTS and how it can resonate in the form of anger. Anger is a common characteristic in individuals who struggle with the affects of trauma. Del tells us about his journey to work on learning new tools to reshape our thinking and our actions. 

Dec 12, 202241:58
"It took me eight years to learn how to sleep." - Del Saam discusses the post traumatic growth journey.

"It took me eight years to learn how to sleep." - Del Saam discusses the post traumatic growth journey.

Del Saam joins me today on Celebrate the Struggle to discuss how his struggles with post traumatic stress have led him on a journey of healing. The journey continues as Del, an Army Veteran, now dedicates his life to serving others as he continues on. his post traumatic growth journey. Del is a Mentor Coordinator for Veterans Treatment Court, a Nation-wide program working to help veterans actually treat the issues that have caused problems resulting in consequences from the criminal justice system. 

After three deployments, Del didn't exactly recognize the affects that PTS until his anger resulted in a domestic violence charge. It was then, that the invisible wounds started to become present through Del's eyes.  Del talks about different programs and resources he has tapped into that have since helped him to learn how to sleep and find the right combination of strategies to help him. 


https://justiceforvets.org/what-is-a-veterans-treatment-court/

https://www.moraineviewretreat.org/

https://strengthathome.org/


Nov 28, 202252:00
October 6th Cawvey Day

October 6th Cawvey Day

Cawvey Day is a day that we remember our fallen sister and NUMBER 2, Jessica Cawvey. We love you Cawvster! 

Oct 06, 202208:10
"Sharing my story has helped me to heal." -Jill Riley

"Sharing my story has helped me to heal." -Jill Riley

Jilly Riley joins me today on Celebrate the Struggle to share her story. Abandoned twice in two different countries, the trauma started at a young age. Jill learned how to put on a face that wouldn't allow others to know what was really going on in her life. After being adopted, her adoptive father molested her and her sister. Meanwhile, Jill's mother was dealing with her own struggles that resulted in vicious physical abuse even to the point where Jill would have to check her clothing to make sure blood wasn't showing through her shirt for others to see. After years of masking the trauma, Jill's life comes to its breaking point. Sharing her story has helped her on her healing journey and continues to keep her going. She continues to share her message and help others as well on her podcast Post Traumatic Faith. 

www.jillriley.com 

jill@jillriley.org

To check this interview out on Youtube just visit https://youtu.be/TmMeFNp6XPY


Sep 29, 202224:26
Don't be your biggest adversary!

Don't be your biggest adversary!

What are the things in your life that hold you back the most? What self-limiting beliefs to you carry with you that you haven't even identified that you are hanging on to them? For me, I am my biggest adversary. I am the one that I battle with the most to get out of my head. I see that. I know that. I'm going to continue doing something about it! What about you?

Aug 24, 202210:19
Legacies live on. RIP Steve Cole

Legacies live on. RIP Steve Cole

“Legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people.” Peter Stople
Aug 16, 202207:18
Be stronger than your inner critic!
Aug 03, 202236:21
Relapsing from a bad habit doesn't mean you failed and have to return to it.
Jul 27, 202235:15
"Figure out what you are passionate about and make a plan."- Jeremy Wells

"Figure out what you are passionate about and make a plan."- Jeremy Wells

Jeremy Wells joins me on Celebrate the Struggle today to chat about his journey to becoming a business owner of Wells Firearms & Training. Wells is an Army Veteran whose passion for weapons and teaching others has led him down a path to doing just that. Wells educates others on firearms safety, but also continues to prioritize ongoing learning himself. He has created a business in the community that brings people together. A place where people can connect and share that camaraderie. One thing that Wells says he always wants to make a priority is keeping that human connection with his clients. Check out his story! https://youtu.be/2n1wij1zxS8 

https://www.facebook.com/wellsfirearms

http://wellsfirearms.com/?fbclid=IwAR0yrcwphq76ujQg_qClyPgwxBmVErTTUC2S22IOl8IxcnuXGwCrIfymz-g

wellsfirearms@gmail.com

Jul 14, 202245:36
What is post traumatic growth?

What is post traumatic growth?

I think by now we have all heard the term "post traumatic stress disorder" or PTSD, but have you heard about post traumatic growth? Post traumatic growth is the journey that one can take after trauma that comes to them. To connect with me more about this or my podcast Celebrate the Struggle just visit www.thejenniferhobbs.com or email me at jennifer@thejenniferhobbs.com  Be sure to subscribe if you want to hear more!

Check it out on my YouTube Channel https://youtu.be/k3P6oMCGdBo


Jul 12, 202209:35
Stick it out with me!

Stick it out with me!

Sometimes things in our lives that we are hoping and praying for, don't happen as quickly as we would like. Remember to stay true to yourself and stick it out. Sounds cheesy...but follow your heart!
Jul 07, 202203:27
Make Self-Care a Priority

Make Self-Care a Priority

Things are going crazy hay-wire in our world and that doesn't mean things slow down at home or in your personal/professsional life. Remember to breathe and take time for yourself. Take at least 30 minutes for a little bit of self-care because that is the priority!
Jun 29, 202205:27
Life is not linear

Life is not linear

Life is not linear. It is full of ups and downs. I encourage you to focus on the strength that got you to where you are today rather than your shortcomings. I challenge you to not focus on other's shortcomings all the time. "It is not so difficult to develop a loving attitude toward yourself and others. Rather than searching for shortcomings, love watches for any sign of light and strength. It sees how far each one has come, not how far he has to go." EDGE Keynote

Jun 22, 202209:15
Where are you going?

Where are you going?

We don't always have to know exactly where we are going. However, it is best that we take time to pause and allow ourselves to just breathe and JUST BE. As Anina Blankenship mentioned in my very first episode of Celebrate the Struggle, let's be "human beings rather than human doers". After taking time to breathe and just BE, trust the conviction you feel on what to do next.
Jun 09, 202214:43
Celebrate the Struggle with Jared Diehl: Living to Thrive Rather than Survive

Celebrate the Struggle with Jared Diehl: Living to Thrive Rather than Survive

 At twenty-two Jared Diehl was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and joins me today to share about how he has not allowed his struggles to keep him from making an impact in this world. Jared shares about his suicidal ideations and his attempt to take his life which left him in a coma. Seven days later he woke up. After five months in recovery, he couldn't figure out why he was still sad even after SURVIVING a suicide attempt.  Jared's journey goes on as he works through the processes that come with life's challenges and learning more about mental health. He is not now working to use his struggles to make an impact in this world, sharing his voice and getting involved in other organizations. Check out his blog and podcast LOUDER NOW to learn more about his journey and what he has learned. I admire you Jared! Keep up the good work and thank you for coming on to get comfortable with the uncomfortable.  

Check out this interview on YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/AVUkr5yqEC4

Jared's Blog: https://loudernow150982498.wordpress.com/blog/ Louder Now Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jared-diehl-the-louder-now-podcast/id1454818946

May 17, 202238:55
Give yourself some grace. You’re doing great!

Give yourself some grace. You’re doing great!

Inspired from the words of a friend, remember today that you are doing good!
May 04, 202204:13
Off on a tangent with the Wildman

Off on a tangent with the Wildman

Wildman joins me on the show to chat about something we never got to because we got off on a tangent. Check it out as we chat more about Care in the Community.
Apr 29, 202214:11
Once a Marine always a Marine

Once a Marine always a Marine

Anthony joins me on the show today to chat about growing up as a military brat, then on to becoming a Veteran himself. We chat about his perseverance as he juggles being a full-time student, working part-time, and caring for a new baby. 


Apr 27, 202226:44
Be Vulnerable

Be Vulnerable

Give yourself permission to be vulnerable. Overcome the fear and judgement and trust that you know what you are doing! “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.”- Brené Brown
Apr 26, 202207:09
Finish this sentence...fun with Perry the Wildman

Finish this sentence...fun with Perry the Wildman

Trivia time with Perry the Wildman. Listen as he is put on the spot and expected to finish the sentence. 

Apr 21, 202210:54
It is not the critic who counts. - Theodore Roosevelt

It is not the critic who counts. - Theodore Roosevelt

Criticism can be constructive at times. It can push us to be and do better. Unfortunately, criticism can also have the opposite effect. It can break us down and bring on a negative self-image. Remember, "it is not the critic who counts."   - Theodore Roosevelt

Apr 20, 202205:19
Find your power within!

Find your power within!

Tuesday reflection was so needed for me. I must find it within me to overcome the frustrating times. I will be grateful and not angry! I will be positive and not negative! I will find the power within me to be resilient. I WILL!

Apr 19, 202205:56
Dr. Ann James tells us about how her WHY helped her find her purpose to help others find financial confidence and freedom.

Dr. Ann James tells us about how her WHY helped her find her purpose to help others find financial confidence and freedom.

My finance battle buddy, Dr. Ann James, joins me today on Celebrate the Struggle to chat about how her WHY led her to helping military veterans reclaim their confidence in managing their finances. There was a time when Ann was not in the position to care for her daughter financially, or at least, she wasn't sure. With that drive to self educate herself on how to obtain and sustain financially freedom, she fell in love with numbers. After 21  years in the military, Ann now dedicates her career to her passion helping veterans with their financial wellness.

 For more information about Dr. Ann James or to schedule a free 15 minute money chat visit: https://linktr.ee/drannjames?fbclid=IwAR2LDtsLRxH11gEl0GJQM4T293QptE7KbfSvBsQzNXdkrl3vAYlFpGbtpC0

To check out this interview on YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/fGUrnlRJ_Y8


Apr 18, 202229:18
Four Types of Symptoms of PTSD

Four Types of Symptoms of PTSD

We chatted last week about post traumatic stress disorder and who has it. Recently when I was doing research on PTSD, I read in a book called Ghosts Within: Journeying Through PTSD by Gary Leech. In there, Leech writes about how PTSD results in a person exhibiting "disruptive physical reactions in the present" in the form of four types of symptoms. Perry the Wildman joins me today to identify those four types. 

Apr 14, 202214:20
Tuesday Reflection: Be okay with being uncomfortable!

Tuesday Reflection: Be okay with being uncomfortable!

Get comfortable with the uncomfortable! No one said it was going to be easy but you are way stronger than the fear or anything that will be thrown at you!
Apr 12, 202204:58
Air Force Veteran & Author, Doug Berry, finds inspiration in his own backyard.
Apr 12, 202229:56
What is PTSD and who has it?

What is PTSD and who has it?

There are so many stigmas out there about PTSD. One of them being that only combat veterans suffer from this disorder, which is not the case. Anyone who has experienced a traumatic event can potentially deal with post traumatic stress.
Apr 07, 202217:37
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Ghandi

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Ghandi

Sometimes we give way too much time and space to the things that consume us and our time. Take time to reflect today. What kind of legacy are you going to leave behind?
Apr 05, 202202:58
Joey Richardson Author of the Burning Storm Series
Apr 04, 202240:56
Santa or Stalin Part 2

Santa or Stalin Part 2

Today the Wildman and Jennifer take it from where they left off last week chatting about Santa or Stalin. In case you missed last week's, be sure to check it out so you know what we are talking about. It is all about growth and identifying who we DO NOT want to be in those impulsive moments of reaction. Be better, do better!

Apr 01, 202215:17
Vietnam War Remembrance Day

Vietnam War Remembrance Day

Thank you to all Vietnam Veterans! Your sacrifice was one that NONE of us will ever be able to understand. 

Mar 29, 202204:16
"You are the only person that will be there for yourself 100% of the time." -Dylan Sessler
Mar 28, 202234:39
Santa or Stalin?

Santa or Stalin?

For someone who suffers from PTSD, sometimes the response to a stimulus is not EXACTLY appropriate. Today Perry the Wildman and I chat about how this looks in our lives. You never know who you are going to get, Santa or Stalin. Stay tuned for more on this topic next week.

Mar 24, 202220:46
Self-talk reflection time

Self-talk reflection time

Can you imagine the things we would be capable of if we did a lot more positive self-talk as opposed to negative self-talk?
Mar 23, 202205:60
A Marine Mother's Perspective with Shari Kuhlman
Mar 21, 202240:50
Vietnam Veterans WELCOME HOME

Vietnam Veterans WELCOME HOME

To all you Vietnam Veterans, WELCOME HOME and thank you so much for sacrificing so much.
Mar 19, 202210:31
PTSD and the Brain

PTSD and the Brain

Perry and Jen chat about what is real life evidence when it comes to PTSD and the brain!
Mar 18, 202214:02
Wisdom Wednesday thanks to ol' Teddy Roosevelt

Wisdom Wednesday thanks to ol' Teddy Roosevelt

HUMP DAY! If you didn't check out yesterday's episode about shame and shame gremlins, be sure to. Today we reflect upon the powerful words of Theodore Roosevelt. Ask yourself, are you the critic, or are you the one daring greatly?
Mar 16, 202203:06
Tuesday Reflection: Shame Gremlins

Tuesday Reflection: Shame Gremlins

I am listening to Brene Brown's The Power of Vulnerability on Audible. She is so insightful and pretty witty folks! You should check her out. 

Today I chat a little bit about her teachings of the shame gremlins and how to overcome them!

Mar 15, 202204:02
"I am still on my road to recovery." Jason McCormick
Mar 15, 202244:42
Fun Facts with Perry the Wildman

Fun Facts with Perry the Wildman

Today we change it up a bit and enjoy a fun interview with Perry the Wildman about a few of his military likes and dislikes. 

Mar 11, 202218:14
Tuesday Reflection on Self-Truths vs Self-Lies

Tuesday Reflection on Self-Truths vs Self-Lies

I highly encourage you to take sometime after listening to this episode to recognize your self-truths vs self-lies.

Mar 08, 202202:56
"If family is not number one, my priorities are all out of whack." Great insight from Keith McKeever the host of Battle Buddy Podcast
Mar 07, 202223:40
First world problems and some positivity on the CRAZY TRAIN!

First world problems and some positivity on the CRAZY TRAIN!

Hahahha I can't help but call myself the crazy train sometimes. I can be rather random, BUT HEY, I'm also very insightful. Check out todays quick episode to hear some insight from me and a conversation I had last evening. Also, check out my first world problem BUT my celebration!
Mar 05, 202206:08
Bringing in March with the Wildman

Bringing in March with the Wildman

Perry the Wildman chats about the continuing process of filing a claim and his triggering appointment he had this week. We got your 6 Perry! Love ya Battle!

Mar 04, 202236:13
Tuesday reflection on the Crazy Train- Enjoy

Tuesday reflection on the Crazy Train- Enjoy

An amazing quote from the book The Unspeakable Mind: Stories of Trauma and Healing From the Frontlines of PTSD Science.

Mar 01, 202204:58
After 30 years in the Marine Corps, Michael continues to serve through his community and passion to help and bring awareness.

After 30 years in the Marine Corps, Michael continues to serve through his community and passion to help and bring awareness.

Michael Gasperini joins me on Celebrate the Struggle today. A proud Marine veteran, married to a Marine veteran, served over thirty years in the service and has since focused that passion for service to giving back. Michael and his wife volunteer for a number of organizations to help support veterans and their family members, as well as other needs and initiatives in their community. "I was blessed to come back from many different things. Now my mission is to give back to our communities and those that may need our assistance."-Michael Gasperini

Michael shares about a buddy of his, Brian Romans that started the Roman's Warrior Foundation and is the curator of the Global War on Terror Wall of Remembrance that travels around to different communities to honor and reflect those soldiers that are not forgotten. The wall will be coming to Black Diamond Harley Davidson in Marion Illinois. The wall will be erected on Friday, April 29th. Others are welcome to volunteer to assemble the 120 foot wall. The dedication of the wall will be on Saturday as well as a motorcycle ride. For more information, visit Romans Warriors Foundation https://www.facebook.com/RWFRetreat

Check out this episode on YouTube  https://youtu.be/uhh1tohVwNg

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/michael.gasperini.969

 Global War on Terrorism Wall of Remembrance https://www.facebook.com/RWFRetreat

Veterans Honor Walk https://www.facebook.com/veteranshonorwalk

 Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association https://www.facebook.com/CVMA245

Stop 22 Tour https://www.facebook.com/stop22tour

 LCpl J Kyle Price Memorial Foundation https://www.facebook.com/jkpmemorialfoundation

Hunter HD Hogan Foundation https://www.facebook.com/circlehdrodeo



Mar 01, 202226:10
Thursdays with Perry the Wildman February 24th

Thursdays with Perry the Wildman February 24th

Join us on Celebrate the Struggle as we chat about what others assume PTSD is and what it looks like.
Feb 24, 202215:25