The Freedom Sisters Show

One of the most critical factors a leader must have—is the ability to speak clearly and ensure others understand the message. Teresa Carpenter has 26 years of experience in the US Navy and holds the critical responsibility to Share the Story of the Navy.

Aircraft mechanic turned Warship Driver, turned Strategic Communicator—Theresa understands what it takes to survive and thrive as a woman in the military.

I am blown away by her pathway to storytelling, her uncanny advice, and the refreshing sentiment—what you see is what you get!  

She has navigated murking waters of toxic leadership and found her voice on the other side.

She has so many critical points in this conversation about, empathy and expectations, proficiency and professionalism, breaking a story and building a team. 

Here is another leader, that will have you grabbing your pen and notebook to write down all her pointers!  She is intelligent, kind, honest and real—a breath of fresh air!

Owning her past mistakes and sharing stories that help others ensures that women and men for decades will be following the advice of this Navy Commander!

Theresa is articulate and authentic. If you are looking for ways to incorporate storytelling into your leadership opportunities, look no further...this episode is for you.  

Our final conversation in our lead series, is a powerhouse, slam dunk for all leaders.  We all have a story, learn to use it for good!

Tune in to this motivating interview!

Going to space was always a lifelong goal of Merryl Tengesdal—one she would definitely achieve.  But on her path to the stars, she also became a critical leader for both the US Navy and Air Force.

Elite pilot, authentic leader and woman who wears many hats, Merryl is a woman that so many women can relate to because she herself is relatable in addition to her incredible accomplishments.

When Merryl begins sharing her story, I can't help but relate to her and while I personally have never been a pilot in any aircraft let alone the prestigious Lockheed Martin U2, I find myself a new friend, just chatting over coffee and laughing like I have known her my whole life.

Maybe that is key to why she leads so well.  She is real, she is authentic and she is damn funny!  Her wit, wisdom and life lessons from her journey truly make her one of my personal favorite leaders to learn from.

As a woman, a wife, a mom, a writer, a risk-taker, a woman who paves her own way and invited others to walk down her path—will keep the listener engaged the moment this brilliant leader opens her mouth.

Merryl is captivating and honest. If you are looking for a mentor this episode is for you.  The no-holds-bar honest talk with Merryl is here.

In this episode, we explore the personal motivation of a leader and how making your mark on the world is more than being the first to do something.

Merryl talks about her leadership style, how to push through limitations and how to lead firmly yet fairly in the US Armed Forces.  We may even talk a little bit about adoption, determination and Pokemon Go!

Tune in to this Captivating interview!

Taking risks and overcoming challenges is second nature to Lt. Col. Lisa Jaster, most known for her incredible accomplishment of earning the coveted Army Ranger Tab.  She was the third woman to earn the Ranger tab, but the first Army Reservist, who also happened to be a 37-year-old—mother of two.

Of course, we cannot sit down with THE LISA JASTER without talking about Ranger school, but there is so much more to this leader than her Ranger status.  A humble and kind kickass leader, that currently serves at a battalion level command for Engineers.  She is a great leader that truly cares about her troops.

She opens up about her time away from her kids, choosing Ranger school and standing in her legacy with her father, also a West Point Grad and Ranger.  Parts of her story, I never knew are revealed in this interview.  But one thing I knew I would love about her, is her remarkable humor and the motherly side of her that shines through her tenacious toughness.

If you are a woman who wants to leave your mark, Lisa is someone you should learn from!  This episode is so impactful to all leaders (male or female) and I suggest you grab your pen and notebook and be ready to receive her advice with zest!

In this episode, we explore the personal motivation of a leader and how making your mark on the world is more than being the first to do something.

Lisa talks about her leadership style, Keys to her success as a leader and we share tears and loads of laughs talking about kids, Army responsibilities and understanding the risks involved.

Tune in to this EMPOWERING interview!

Often times women step into leadership roles by force and other times by opportunity.  Montana Pellegrini's Air Force dreams of becoming a pilot were taken from her for medical reasons outside of her control, but that didn't stop her from moving forward in leadership in the Air Force.

She empathized with other women who were suffering from migraines and literally in pain every day because of a grooming standard in the military.

So she began to ask questions about how to change the hair policy for female airmen.  After joining forces with others who also sought the change, Montana played a key role in helping the Air Force Hair Policy reform.  The hashtag #FreeTheBun was born and women service members rejoiced everywhere!

In this episode, we discuss how one person willing to champion change for others is sometimes all it takes, but you have to start! If you are not sure what a difference you can make for others or are struggling to know how to contribute to a greater cause, then this episode is a MUST listen!

Montana talks about her leadership style, the most important traits leaders must possess and we have a good time talking about how Millenials can and are making a difference for the better and for the future of the force!

Tune in to this transformative interview!

Join us for the final episode of our first series of 2022!    

We sat down and talk with 6 women who are actively serving in the US military and we have saved the best for last (I may be biased being a former Army Officer, just saying) to close out this series with the original military power, the US Army National Guard/Army/Militia.   

Want to know what it is like to serve in the Active-Guard Reserve Program of the Army as a junior enlisted member or hear a first-hand account of one woman's story who is actively still serving, well, then this episode is for you!    

Each week during this series, we will hear about why they serve, what lead to their service, how basic training (or ROTC) was, we will hear about most memorable moments, hard moments, advice (ahem, mentHERship), goals, future plans and so much more!  Each week the questions are the same, but true to the nature of the diversity in our women warriors, the answers are all uniquely different.    

Every week there is a little amazing revelation and a true HOPE for women who are serving to one day hope to serve.  

This week, it's Yami's turn to blow us away with her adventures and accomplishments!  

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This series focuses on SERVICE.  

Your support and our work inform and empower four major focus areas related to military-connected women.    

Serve: Drive change by understanding the legacy and contributions of women’s military service and inspire others by sharing personal narratives of women who defend freedom.  The other three areas are Lead, Next and Thrive,  future shows will highlight these areas as well.    

Join us for the fifth episode of our first series of 2022!

We sat down and talk with 6 women who are actively serving in the US military and we close out this series with the smallest branch, the US Coast Guard.

Want to know what it is like to serve in the Coast Guard or hear a first-hand account of one woman's story who is actively still serving, well, then this episode is for you!

Each week during this series, we will hear about why they serve, what lead to their service, how basic training (or ROTC) was, we will hear about most memorable moments, hard moments, advice (ahem, mentHERship), goals, future plans and so much more!  Each week the questions are the same, but true to the nature of the diversity in our women warriors, the answers are all uniquely different.  Every week there is a little amazing revelation and a true HOPE for women who are serving to one day hope to serve.

This week, it's Sara's turn to blow us away with her adventures and accomplishments! (plus we are extra lucky with this gal, she also writes for the Freedom Sisters Magazine.

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This series focuses on SERVICE.

Your support and our work inform and empower four major focus areas related to military-connected women.  Serve: Drive change by understanding the legacy and contributions of women’s military service and inspire others by sharing personal narratives of women who defend freedom.

The other three areas are Lead, Next and Thrive,  future shows will highlight these areas as well.

Join us for the fourth episode of our first series of 2022!  

We sit down and talk with 6 women who are actively serving in the US military and we are so excited to announce our first Space Force guest, Bethany coming at you live this week.

Want to know what it is like to serve in the Space Force or hear a first-hand account of one woman's story who is actively still serving, well, then this episode is for you!  

Each week during this series, we will hear about why they serve, what lead to their service, how basic training (or ROTC) was, we will hear about most memorable moments, hard moments, advice (ahem, mentHERship), goals, future plans and so much more!  Each week the questions are the same, but true to the nature of the diversity in our women warriors, the answers are all uniquely different.  Every week there is a little amazing revelation and a true HOPE for women who are serving to one day hope to serve.  

This week, it's Bethany's turn to blow us away with her adventures and accomplishments! 

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This series focuses on SERVICE.  

Your support and our work inform and empower four major focus areas related to military-connected women.  Serve: Drive change by understanding the legacy and contributions of women’s military service and inspire others by sharing personal narratives of women who defend freedom.  

The other three areas are Lead, Next and Thrive,  future shows will highlight these areas as well.  

Join us for the third episode of our first series of 2022!  

We sit down and talk with 6 women who are actively serving in the US military and today we chat with Stephanie, USAF Veteran and amazing sister in arms. She is an incredible leader and drops some amazing insight and advice this week!

Want to know what it is like to serve in the Air Force or hear a first-hand account of one woman's story who is actively still serving, well, then this episode is for you!  

Each week during this series, we will hear about why they serve, what lead to their service, how basic training (or ROTC) was, we will hear about most memorable moments, hard moments, advice (ahem, mentHERship), goals, future plans and so much more!  Each week the questions are the same, but true to the nature of the diversity in our women warriors, the answers are all uniquely different.  Every week there is a little amazing revelation and a true HOPE for women who are serving to one day hope to serve.  

This week, it's Stephanie's turn to blow us away with her adventures and accomplishments!

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This series focuses on SERVICE.  

Your support and our work inform and empower four major focus areas related to military-connected women.  Serve: Drive change by understanding the legacy and contributions of women’s military service and inspire others by sharing personal narratives of women who defend freedom.  

The other three areas are Lead, Next and Thrive,  future shows will highlight these areas as well.  

Join us for episode two of our first series of 2022!  

We sit down and talk with 6 women who are actively serving in the US military and since we started with the Navy, we thought it fitting to go to her sister branch the US Marine Corps. Today we chat with Lisa, a Staff Sergeant in the Marines.

Want to know what it is like to serve in the Marine Corps or hear a first-hand account of one woman's story who is actively still serving, well, then this episode is for you!  

Each week during this series, we will hear about why they serve, what lead to their service, how basic training (or ROTC) was, we will hear about most memorable moments, hard moments, advice (ahem, mentHERship), goals, future plans and so much more!  Each week the questions are the same, but true to the nature of the diversity in our women warriors, the answers are all uniquely different.  Every week there is a little amazing revelation and a true HOPE for women who are serving to one day hope to serve.  

This week, it's Lisa's turn to blow us away with her adventures and accomplishments! 

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This series focuses on SERVICE.  

Your support and our work inform and empower four major focus areas related to military-connected women.  Serve: Drive change by understanding the legacy and contributions of women’s military service and inspire others by sharing personal narratives of women who defend freedom.  

The other three areas are Lead, Next and Thrive,  future shows will highlight these areas as well.  

Join us for our first series of 2022!

We sit down and talk with 6 women who are actively serving in the US military and we are licking it off with Natasha, a US Naval Officer.

Want to know what it is like to serve in the Navy or hear a first-hand account of one woman's story who is actively still serving, well, then this episode is for you!

Each week during this series, we will hear about why they serve, what lead to their service, how basic training (or ROTC) was, we will hear about most memorable moments, hard moments, advice (ahem, mentHERship), goals, future plans and so much more!

Each week the questions are the same, but true to the nature of the diversity in our women warriors, the answers are all uniquely different.  Every week there is a little amazing revelation and a true HOPE for women who are serving to one day hope to serve.

This week, it's Natasha's turn to blow us away with her adventures and accomplishments!

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This series focuses on SERVICE.

Your support and our work inform and empower four major focus areas related to military-connected women.

Serve: Drive change by understanding the legacy and contributions of women’s military service and inspire others by sharing personal narratives of women who defend freedom.

The other three areas are Lead, Next and Thrive,  future shows will highlight these areas as well.

Disclaimer:  We talk about domestic violence in great detail in this episode, please listen with care.

Many of you know I am involved in advocacy work in addition to running the media company, although there is a lot of intersectionality in the two worlds, I tend to really focus on the success and triumphs of my sisters and not the murky darkness of turmoil, violence, sadness, etc.  

But what I am seeing in our military today, quite frankly, just makes me sad and disappointed.  I LOVE the military, I love what it can be, I think it can be a place of dignity, strength, honor and valor.  I would have never willingly been a part of an organization for so long otherwise, but those suffering in silence from abuse of an intimate partner, fellow solider, leader or the powers who fail to hold others accountable have really come to a place where CHANGE IS A MUST.

Those of us who say we love people, we care about our country and we appreciate America's sons and daughters, must speak up, unite and help end this devastation that is rampant in our military.

These families give so much to this nation, we need to hold the ones destroying them - ACCOUNTABLE.

So, tune in to hear this powerful and informative conversation with Kerri, Amy and Jennifer three advocates actively pursuing the DoD to be accountable for the issues of violence among our force.

An active duty Marine and activist is doing the damn thing and demanding reform and new policies to be designed to help military members and spouses find justice from Domestic violence.  

A candid and passionate interview with JMarie who is tirelessly working towards reform for sexual assault, abuse, domestic violence and breaking the stigma of mental health in America's Armed Forces.  

Tune in for a down and dirty conversation about why DV is plaguing our military force, how to report and seek help and most importantly to reach others who may be in a situation right now that needs to break free from the violence.  

If you are in crisis call 800.799.7233 or 911. 

 ****Please listen with care as we talk about some uncomfortable topics and some language.  

Spc. Maura Spence, a Katy, Texas native and an intelligence analyst with 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, won first place in Miss Colorado 2021 pageant, June 8, 2021.   

Spence and the Ivy Team are hoping for a victory, but Spence maintains a humble perspective: “If I don’t win Miss America, I’ll still be Miss Colorado. Either way, I feel like I win if I get to represent my state and my country.”   

We get to sit down with this incredibly kind, intelligent and amazing sister-in-service as she talks about her passion to break the stigma of mental health for military members.  An incredibly bright and compassionate young lady, who is fully woman and fully warrior on many fronts!  

Tune in to hear about her journey into the military and her success in the pageant world as well!  Tune in on Dec 16, 2021, to see if she is crowned the next Miss America! 

We are celebrating our 100th Episode with Stephanie Gattas, who served in the Navy 1994-2002 and after her own healing journey started The Pink Berets.   

All month long TPB has sponsored our podcast and we are so grateful for their work in our community.  

When women come to TPB they want to change their lives.   All services are free of charge to the participant. One reason that Gattas was adamant that there be no cost to the participants is that by simply calling to inquire about the services, they are already taking responsibility for their lives and treatment and that is enough good faith to trust they’ll come through the door and use the services being provided for free.   Eliminating the financial burden has proven critical to the success and empowerment of women veterans who come for the many programs and events.  

The Pink Berets is a catalyst for women to reclaim what is rightfully theirs.  On today's show, we sit down with this fearless LeadHER and learn so much about the pivotal moments and memories that keep her motivated in the space.  

From helping troubled youth to being a fierce voice in the justice for Vanessa Guillen—every moment of this conversation is empowering and enlightening.  Women are Warriors—listen in to find out more.  

The Freedom Sisters Show is brought to you today by The Pink Berets.

The Pink Berets offers many types of therapeutic techniques to help you process and come to terms with your experience, gain mastery over your reactions, and re-establish a sense of hope, personal efficacy, and control over your life. We use empirically validated trauma therapeutic approaches for PTSD, Military Sexual Trauma, and Combat Trauma Stress. The Pink Berets is committed to educating and advocate for all women veterans who served in the United States military, by facilitating outreach efforts through various services and initiatives including culinary therapy.

Culinary Art Therapy has many benefits such as gaining insight into one’s behavior, learning about social skills/ cues, Improved communication skills, Improved memory, attention and focus, and Stress management. People experience life through the senses. The more we use our senses, the more they mature and help us fully integrate into life. Stimulating the five senses leads to great brain development. Making use of our senses is how we exercise our brains. Just like a car needs fuel, so do our brains. Our fuel gets refilled by continuing the make use of our ability for touch, taste, smell, sight and hearing. All of these senses get a work out in the kitchen.

Deb and Juanita share insights about the program and other opportunities that The Pink Berets provides.

The Freedom Sisters Podcast is being brought to you by the Pink Berets.  

The Pink Berets are committed to women veterans who are afflicted with PTSD, MST, CST and helping her heal before it's too late!  

Women Veterans have a much higher likelihood of committing suicide than our non-veteran women, a price for freedom many refuse to talk about! 

 Kerri Jeter sits down with Ayana and Dr. Abney discusses how therapy coupled with alternative therapy methods are changing lives and bringing women veterans together to heal but most importantly to thrive!  

The Pink Berets are sponsoring the Freedom Sisters Podcast for the month of September and we are so excited!  

We sit down with Kim and Amber today to share the programs and mission of the organization.   

If you need help with trauma-informed therapy options, virtual or in-person, tune in! 

It is the mission, duty and purpose of The Pink Berets to address, educate, coordinate, and provide aid and relief to active duty women of the United States Armed Forces and Veterans seeking assistance with invisible injuries such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Military Sexual Trauma and Combat Trauma Stress on a local and national level.  Two of the programs we highlight today are the Visual Arts and Photography Classes!    

For the whole month of August, The Freedom Sisters Podcast is brought to you by IDIG, LLC.  

This week I get to continue this leadership series with IDIG with Vicky Demark. Vicki is the only partner of the company who is not in the Louisville, Kentucky area, she's actually in Texas and supports this organization from a remote location. Vicki is one of three co-owners of this company.  

Keneidra, who we heard in week three and her husband, Darren, along with Vicki, created this beautiful organization because of their passion for leadership and for the expertise that they all possessed.  

She served about 11 years in the military and the US Army, of course. And she continued to serve and support her husband who went on to have a full career in the military.  

Today is the final episode in this LeadHERship series and will close out the great debate of are leaders made or born? It's really exciting to see how they agree or disagree...What do you think Vicki will say?  

For the whole month of August, The Freedom Sisters Podcast is brought to you by IDIG, LLC.

This week, we continue the conversation with Bee. I'm so excited to be talking to Bee Clark because she is the mama of the group. She and her husband have really taken on such a sweet role throughout their military career of really guiding and mentoring and being that constant contact for many soldiers that they get the privilege to lead. Bee is another one of those incredible drill sergeants who had the opportunity to really impart her wisdom at the earliest stages of the development of soldiers. She served for 23 years in the United States Army and retired as a Master Sergeant. My favorite part about the conversation was within the first 30 seconds, which she said she was a diehard Cowboys fan.

And we will be continuing the debate of are leaders made or born? It's really exciting to see how they agree or disagree...Where will Bee stand?

For the whole month of August, The Freedom Sisters Podcast is brought to you by IDIG, LLC.

Today, we sit down with Keneidra Hargrove, one of the co-foundHERs and the chief executive member of iDIG LLC. She is a 24 year veteran of the United States Army. She implements the policies and provides the overall direction of iDIG within the guidelines set up by their board of directors. She oversees the planning, directing, the coordinating of all operational activities.

Keneidra also had an incredible military career and she also was a drill Sergeant. I am so excited for you to hear what Keneidra, has to say on this continuing debate of are leaders made or born? It's really exciting to see how they agree or disagree on this debate.

For the whole month of August, The Freedom Sisters Podcast is brought to you by IDIG, LLC.

Today, we sit down with Marlena Goode, The HR DIrector for IDIG.  She served honorably for 28 years in the US Army, holding critical leadership roles throughout her career to include being a drill sergeant! She is the second of five women we get to hear from this month from the iDIG team. iDIG is the Innovative directions investment group, an organization that understands leadership is a continuous process at all levels, and they tailored their leadership programs to fit individual company needs.

In 2019, the proportion of women in senior management roles globally grew to 29%, the highest number ever recorded. In 2020, this percentage remains the same.

For the whole month of August, The Freedom Sisters Podcast is brought to you by IDIG, LLC.

Today, we sit down with Tiffany Adams, currently still serving in the Army, a mom and a leader.  She is the first of five women we get to hear from this month from the iDIG team.  iDIG is the Innovative directions investment group, an organization that understands leadership is a continuous process at all levels, and they tailored their leadership programs to fit individual company needs.

Globally, women hold just 24% of senior leadership positions. The U.S. lags behind the global average at 21%, compared to China where women hold 51% of senior leadership slots. Women represent 45% of the S&P 500 workforce, but only 4% of the CEOs, according to iwl.nichols.edu.

We know this all too well in the military where only 18% of the force is female and in 2008, Gen. Ann Dunwoody would be the first female 4-star general ever.  We know that women are worthy and capable of leadership, but how do we get there when there is little or no mentorship?

All 5 of the women we will hear from in August 2021, are leaders and have held leadership positions in and out of the military and have developed classes and an entire business to helping other leaders thrive.

I hope you are hungry for this wisdom.

My favorite debate of all time gets hashed out each episode....are leaders made or are they born?

Well, we are back with part 2 with Rosy, Bri, Jennifer, and Kerri!

If you are a military woman and a mom, this conversation is a MUST to listen in on as we discuss families and service!

If you are a dual military family, this is a MUST listen to the conversation as well.

-We talk about Family Care Plans

-Advice for raising kids while being a female in the military

-The imbalance of parental responsibility for females and males

-Some extremely valuable information for junior enlisted that may not understand the discrimination around the topic of mission and motherhood.

We also, touch base on the IRC for Sexual Assualt and what the ladies have to say about leadership, corruption, and change!

VALUABLE insights!

We are not just changing the world we have fun while doing it, so we end on a light-hearted note, with loads of laughs!

Join Kerri as she introduces her inner circle the Mean Girls Squad.  No, they don't wear pink on Weds!!!

Having been friends since 2010, these four Army Officers met at Fort Jackson as baby lieutenants and have gone onto have incredible careers in the Army.  Kerri is the only one no longer in service.

But these ladies have experienced deployments, overseas tours, marriages, divorce, new babies, single motherhood and lots of wine together!

So come have a front-row seat to our shenanigans!  We are so excited to introduce Jennifer, Bri and Rosy!

Shannon Huffman Polson is a genuine leader that cares for others.  I got the pleasure of sitting down with her for the Freedom Sisters Magazine and what an inspiration she truly is.

She is the first woman to fly an apache on Fort Bragg.  One of the first to earn the level of expertise in the AH-64 Apache Airframe.  In 1993, when the Combat Exclusion Ban was lifted, she went all into making the dream a reality.

She was the youngest woman at the time in 1993, to climb Denali, the highest summit in North America. She is a mom, wife, author, speaker and entrepreneur.  It is my greatest joy to have Shannon on the show today!

Our guest this week, is the one and only, Sistah Soldier!  

She owns SHE VET ™ Media Production and Consulting Firm that strives to encourage gender equality and diversity in the digital workforce. They know that everything has its own uniqueness, who aim to highlight the forgotten and unrecognized beauty with creativity.

They help with digital media, personal branding or video/photography!

Sistah is a gifted host, producer and storyteller and you are all in for a treat today!

Our guest this week is a fellow PodcastHER and combat veteran CPT (R) Lindsey Rowland who hosts the Carry On Podcast.  She and her guests on their take on the military, veterans issues, legislation, transition and life. Lindsey’s carry on approach broaches tough topics and creates a compelling platform with guests ranging from the military, veteran community, civilians, legislators and topic experts in their field. 

Carry On, originally derived from the standard go back to work in the military, takes on a multifold of meanings here in the form of carrying on through the challenging times in life with entertaining discussions and stories by both guest and host on facing their own personal adversity.

Carrry On also brings perspective and awareness to resources, tools, programs and opportunities to help those transitioning from the military to carry on with success in their civilian life and after. 

As a veteran who is still transitioning, Lindsey brings a frank perspective to the table while providing entertaining banter in addition to educating her audience with valuable information. With Lindsey’s close proximity to the Hill, the Carry On Podcast also focuses on current military and veteran legislation with guests contributing various viewpoints in order to provide the listener with a broad, robust legislative picture.

Learn more about her story with us today!

Let's go today we are talking with Jennifer Brofer as we continue the EntertainHERs Series here on the Freedom Sisters Podcast.

Jennifer Brofer is a producer and actor who served as a Marine Corps broadcast journalist. Growing up, she always had a love for theater and film, but she put her dreams on hold in order to answer the call to military service.

We start a new series this week!

We are talking to writers, authors, producers, directors, creators, podcasters galore for the next 8 weeks!

Our very first and lovely guest is Melanie Corinne.

We are wrapping up our series with our mother/daughter duos today and we have such a treat for you.  

This episode is full of love and grace.  My favorite thing about this duo is the fact that Tanya, the momma came into Amber's life and healed her broken parts and accepted her FULLY as a daughter.

I just love the sincerity and compassion yet extreme ambition with this pair! A story of hope, healing and belonging.

Being in the military is hard, being a mother in the military is harder—this series has hopefully given you a glimpse of the incredible commitment it takes to serve at home and in the military.

All month long we are celebrating military MotHERhood with mother/daughter duos.  This week we sit down with duo #4!

You are in for a real treat. An incredible adoption story that was sealed with the love of service.

Teryn and Ashley are strong, brave, kind and full of love not only for this nation but for one another and other women veterans.

We discuss the hard moments of military service, breastfeeding in uniform, giving back to MST survivors and being a Texan in Kodiak, Alaska!

May is a fun month, all month long to honor MotHER's day, we are bringing you 5 weeks of mother/daughter duos to the show. You get to hear about the family dynamics, honor and how the military really is a family business for these special mother-daughter teams.

This week is week 3 and we have Kathy Donovan and Emily Cirocco.

Both women are Navy, one retired after 30 years of faithful service and the other still serving and getting ready to be a recruiter!  I was a captain in the Army an O3 but a Captian in the Navy is an O6,  which is the rank right below generals/admirals.  Really senior ranking and the competition is steep.  Kathy Donovan achieved that rank in her 30-year career and is known as a legend to those who served under her.  Her daughter Emily Cirocco is a Petty Officer 3rd Class and looking forward to continuing to serve and make a name for herself in the Navy.

Emily is a new mom and we get to hear both women gush over the baby, hear about the fun they had served together, special memories and how they became a family.  Our first blended family in the series with a very special bond and story.  I hope you leave this conversation knowing that blood is not thicker than water, you can serve and parent well, and mostly finding what works for your family to be the mom and the military member you want to be!  

We have some great tips and advice for you today, so let's dive in.

For more stories of women veterans subscribe to our magazine. 

Welcome to Women in Service—A Partnership between ViacomCBS Veterans Network and Freedom Sisters Media.  This is our first episode Part 1 with Retired Colonel Merryl Tengesdal. 

To us, Merryl is the coolest woman on the planet and you are about to find out why, tune in to part one to hear all about her military career!  

More about Merryl:  

A retired United States Air Force Colonel, Tengesdal served in the Iraq War and the War in Afghanistan.   A native of The Bronx, New York, Tengesdal is a graduate from the University of New Haven with a Science Degree in electrical engineering. She was one of three women to make it through the program. After Officer Candidate School commissioning, she began a career as a Naval Aviator by flying the SH-60B Seahawk Helicopter at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. During that time, she deployed on two long cruises and multiple short cruises to the Middle East, South America and the Caribbean. After a three-year sea tour in helicopters, Colonel Tengesdal went on to become a T-34C and T-6A Instructor Pilot. 

After completing T-6A Instructor Training, she became one of four Navy T-6A Instructors to train Navy and Air Force students at Joint Student Undergraduate Pilot Training (JSUPT) at Moody Air Force Base, GA. Her former Navy flight instructor, Commander Ron Robinson, has said that Merryl David (maiden name) "was one of my best flight students, and it doesn't surprise me that she's doing so well."  Once she completed her Navy obligation, she continued her military career by transferring over to the Air Force to fly the Lockheed U-2S Dragon Lady at Beale Air Force Base in Northern California. Tengesdal was deployed to multiple locations in support of Operations OLIVE HARVEST, ENDURING FREEDOM, IRAQI FREEDOM and HORN OF AFRICA.  

In 2017, Tengesdal retired from Air Force as a colonel.  

In 2021, she competed on the CBS Television Show, Tough as Nails.  

Welcome to Women in Service—A Partnership between ViacomCBS Veterans Network and Freedom Sisters Media.  This is our first episode Part 1 with Retired Colonel Merryl Tengesdal.

To us, Merryl is the coolest woman on the planet and you are about to find out why, tune in to part two to hear what she is doing now she is no longer in the military! She is a mom, motivational speaker, personal trainer and a reality TV Star!!!  Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers in the world, we love you and appreciate your hard work!

More about Merryl:  A retired United States Air Force Colonel, Tengesdal served in the Iraq War and the War in Afghanistan.   A native of The Bronx, New York, Tengesdal is a graduate from the University of New Haven with a Science Degree in electrical engineering. She was one of three women to make it through the program. After Officer Candidate School commissioning, she began a career as a Naval Aviator by flying the SH-60B Seahawk Helicopter at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. During that time, she deployed on two long cruises and multiple short cruises to the Middle East, South America and the Caribbean. After a three-year sea tour in helicopters, Colonel Tengesdal went on to become a T-34C and T-6A Instructor Pilot. After completing T-6A Instructor Training, she became one of four Navy T-6A Instructors to train Navy and Air Force students at Joint Student Undergraduate Pilot Training (JSUPT) at Moody Air Force Base, GA. Her former Navy flight instructor, Commander Ron Robinson, has said that Merryl David (maiden name) "was one of my best flight students, and it doesn't surprise me that she's doing so well."  Once she completed her Navy obligation, she continued her military career by transferring over to the Air Force to fly the Lockheed U-2S Dragon Lady at Beale Air Force Base in Northern California. Tengesdal was deployed to multiple locations in support of Operations OLIVE HARVEST, ENDURING FREEDOM, IRAQI FREEDOM and HORN OF AFRICA.

In 2017, Tengesdal retired from Air Force as a colonel.

In 2021, she competed on the CBS Television Show, Tough as Nails.

May is gonna be a fun month, all month long to honor MotHER's day, we are bringing you 5 weeks of mother/daughter duos to the show. You get to hear about the family dynamics, honor and how the military really is a family business for these special mother-daughter teams.

This is week two of five and we have on the show today,  Army Capt. Ann Potter and her daughter Air Force Capt. Molly Mae Potter.

This is an honest conversation about life, love, overcoming and serving others well.  Teo highly humble and high-achieving women overload us with wisdom and love—you won't want to miss this beautiful duo!

May is gonna be a fun month, all month long to honor MotHER's day, we are bringing you 5 weeks of mother/daughter duos to the show. You get to hear about the family dynamics, honor and how the military really is a family business for these special mother-daughter teams.

Up first is mom, Retired Maj. Venita Shackleford and daughter, Petty Officer 3rd Class Brianna Rhean.

This is an unforgettable chat about the bond of a single mother family raising two daughters who persevered and thrived in a military career.

After 8 years Tasia Crawford speaks out about her SurviveHER story and on March 1, 2021 started her Forever Crowned Instagram account to be a guiding light for otHERs.

Today is her first podcast appearance and shares her story with us so bravely and courageously. 

As a courtesy, I want to let our listenHERs know that we do discuss some tough points about her story and it may increase your own sensitivities in your own story, listen with caution and care for yourself.

Also, I get a little heated and say a couple of curse words, thank you for your grace.

I am very honored to share Tasia Crawford's story and I hope today whoever needs to hear they are not alone in their pain, may you be blessed and encouraged today.

Proverbs 31:25 She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.

We continue the SurviveHER Series talking with Lindsey Knapp who is the real deal, the pit bull in the fight for justice.   She's been advocating for victims of sexual violence for more than 19 years.  As a graduate from North Carolina Central University School of Law and military veteran, she knows knows how you feel.....and has the know how to help.

Today we talk about real stories and how together we are in the fight for justice.  We want women who hear this today, to know that we love you and that we believe you and you are worthy of justice, healing and hope.

Continuing April 2021 with the SurviveHER Series, we have another compelling show for you today.

There is always room at our table for fighters for justice, although not a woman veteran, Amy Franck's work supports our sisters, especially those who no longer have a voice to speak up for themselves.  I am so honored to be friends with Amy Franck and helping her in her mission to eradicate the abuse of power in our military and seek justice for Military Sexual Trauma victims.

Today's conversation is an honest, reflective, and raw conversation abt problems in the ranks that allow the pervasive culture of assault, battery, and rape to fester in the military.

Listen to hear about the incredible work she is doing for MST victims and if you are a victim of MST, sister, we believe you and we are here for you too!  Reach out to us!

FOr April 2021, I wanted to introduce a special series to help those who suffer from MST, this is our SurviveHER Series and we kick it off with Ashley Gorbulja-Maldonado who is a warrior, scholar, leader, advocate, and entrepreneur…surviveHER.

As a consummating professional and a leading voice in supporting America’s military-connected community, she has dedicated her career towards building nationally recognized programs, brands, and communities through strategic communications and marketing.

She additionally focuses on improving the outcomes of non-traditional students in higher education, empowering call-to-action storytelling to demystify the military-civilian divide, and improving local, state, and federal policies and program development as a one-of-a-kind consultant.

She is a driven, passionate, and strategic visionary that has experienced increasing organizational responsibility in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. 

Her life Motto—I Can. I Will. Watch Me.

We are so excited to share her story with you all today as we kick off the SurviveHER Series for SAAM.  #webelieveyou

Today's guest is an Air Force Veteran, who served during the Panama conflict and the first Gulf War era.

She has used her time and life wisely to position herself to leave a lasting impact to whoever she coaches or leads.  

Continuing the Women Warriors Living Legacy 2021, we get the pleasure of chatting with a Vietnam Veteran, Donna Lowery who spent 19-months in Vietnam during the war.  Donna raised all the way up the enlisted ranks to achieve the prestigious title of Sergeant Major.  

You all are in for a real treat with a conversation of a woman who loves this country and has incredible memory to help the listener understand the work women did in Vietnam.  She shares so much how serving in the Army through incredible change has made a lasting impact on her life and how she has been a champion for women veterans to obtain benefits and support after the uniform.

She wrote a book about Women Vietnam Veterans!

More about the book - Women Vietnam Veterans: Our Untold Stories, by Donna Lowery, a Vietnam veteran, chronicles the participation of American military women during the Vietnam War. This little-known group of an estimated 1,200 women from the Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy left its mark in Vietnam from 1962 to 1973. They served in a myriad of duties from intelligence analysts, flight controllers, clerk-typists, translators, physical therapists, dieticians and communications specialists among many others.

Amelia Cunnigham is a dynamic and inspiring Korean War Woman Veteran. She served from 1954 -1957 as a morning report clerk in Manhattan.

Declining the opportunity to become an officer, she returned to Illinois to pursue a career in teaching.

Amelia Cunningham became a more famous Korean War Veteran after her Honor Flight to DC in 2018.

She has made an impact for generations in her teaching career, which was made possible by the GI Bill and scholarships, she felt she was able to receive because of her experience in the military.

Amelia is now 95-years-old, a retired teacher who doesn't own a computer or a smartphone.  Recording her interview was a good old-fashioned phone call.  

Despite not having state-of-the-art audio, this interview is truly state-of-the-heart.  An inspiring story indeed!

Trigger Warning: Hey listeners, we want you to prepare for this conversation so that you can adequately engage or, if necessary, disengage for your own wellbeing. Some of today's content may cause intense physiological and psychological symptoms for people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders. 

To the family's left behind from the Oso Mudslide that I mention in this episode, please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.  I will never forget them. 

Nicole and Kerri dive into part 2 of this conversation, it's almost like a coaching call between us, we share tears, real vulnerable stories and heartache coupled with breakthroughs.

Nicole Smith is a Military Veteran turned Life Coach and Mental Wellness Advocate, who recently retired after 20 years of honorable service in the United States Coast Guard. While serving our country, she suffered from anxiety and depression in silence.  She stayed quiet out of fear. Fear of judgment, shame, the possibility of losing her job, and ultimately the fear that no one would understand.

But after hitting rock bottom, she is now helping other women veterans and military spouses navigate their freedom too!

Verse of the week: Psalm 32:7.

You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah.

Then, 18-year old Nicole Smith arrived at her first duty station in some fishing town in Oregon.  She signed in for duty as an operator, basically performing the duties of a 9-1-1 dispatch for the US Coast Guard.  Years after being told to brush aside her emotions, suck it up and drive on and mission first, in addition to her own personal struggles--suffered a broken heart.

What manifested in a massive panic attack, Nicole was experiencing suicide ideations and was in deep darkness, but then the doctor who was treating her panic attack spoke kind words and for the first time in forever, Nicole felt seen and understood.  

After having success in her own healing journey with a life coach, Nicole has become one herself, when she exited her 20-year Coast Guard career.

Now she is passionate about helping other women veterans and military spouses find true freedom for themselves as well.

Verse of the week: Matthew 18:12-14.

12 “What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? 13 And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. 14 In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.

Carrie Beavers is an Independent Affiliate at Scars and Stripes Coffee, and also a Scars and Stripes Squad leader for the Northeastern United States. She is a Disabled Veteran who served in the U.S. Army for 10 years on active duty and 5 months in the Army Reserves as a Combat Medic.

When she saw began her entrepreneur journey she was struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and feeling stuck in her life. Who can relate to that?  Unsure of the path you should take or stuck in the mundane or worse trapped in a mindset you want to be free from?

She had a great paying job as a nurse, but she felt like something was missing. Soon after joining the company she started to gain more confidence and felt that void being filled by being around other veterans, and of course, she loves the coffee so it was a win, win.

But now her life and business venture are even bigger as she is on the cusp of launching her very own coffee company, called Soldier Girl Coffee.  Her humor, drive, authenticity is incredible and energizing.....plus the coffee she sells is darn good, yall!

I cannot wait for you to hear this story and know that no matter where you are on the journey there is a path made just for YOU....so take one step at a time and work towards the goal you have set out to crush!