The Female Veterans Podcast

On this best podcast episode of 2024, Victoria shares her story. We discuss her military experience, assualts, trauma of a very challenging deployment and the impact it had on her family. She shares how her military experience changed her into a monster, and her long journey to heal herself and her family. I learn how gardening transformed her, and how she is helping other veterans learn to heal through gardening.

Call To Action:

Share this episode with others who might find these stories and insights inspiring and stay tuned for future episodes from The Female Veterans Podcast. Don't forget to follow the podcast on Instagram @thefemaleveterans podcast and subscribe on YouTube search for The Female Veterans podcast.

In this very special episode of The Female Veterans Podcast, I am joined by Lola, who is doing some incredible work for the veteran community. Lola shares her experience facilitating veteran women's indigenous healing circles and discusses the upcoming event - a female veterans grief retreat. She highlights the constant presence of grief in the lives of female veterans and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing it.

We talk about creating safe spaces for female veterans to process their grief, share their experiences, and support each other, incorporating indigenous healing methods and humor as essential components. Lola underscores the need for community, care, and compassion, expressing how these emotions have often been overlooked or trained out of them, particularly in high-intensity military environments. We also touch on the challenges of representing all women in a male-dominated military structure and the necessity of dismantling misogyny within their own ranks.

Lola shares the significance of creating a container for women to share and be present in their own way, expressing the value of intentionally spending time with other veteran women. We discuss the impact of these healing circles, the power of sharing and witnessing each other's stories, and the opportunities for breakthroughs and continuous personal work.

With the upcoming grief retreat being a safe and confidential space for female veterans, Lola invites women to reach out and participate, even if they have doubts or concerns. I also express my admiration for Lola's work and reiterates the podcast's mission of supporting female veterans and providing a platform for their stories to be heard.

This episode serves as a heartfelt invitation for female veterans to join the grief retreat, find support, and transmute their grief in a space that honors their experiences and fosters healing. It's a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the value of intentional time spent with fellow veterans.

Episode Highlights:

1. Safe Space for Healing: Lola and her team have crafted a 3-day grief retreat focused on addressing the grief experienced by female veterans. This retreat provides a safe and confidential space for women to share, support, and transmute their grief.

2. Indigenous Healing Practices: The retreat incorporates indigenous methodologies and emphasizes the importance of building community, honoring vulnerability, and embracing humor as a healing tool.

3. Accessible Support: Through the use of virtual platforms like Zoom, Lola has made the support accessible to female veterans regardless of their location. Whether you're in your pajamas at home or in a rural community, this retreat offers the opportunity for healing and connection.

Conclusion:

For more information or to inquire about future events, you can contact Lola at gunseek53@yahoo.com. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of a supportive community dedicated to female veterans' healing and empowerment. Remember, you are not alone on this journey!

Call To Action:

Join us in gaining valuable insights into the experiences of these incredible women veterans as they create a safe space for healing, sharing, and supporting one another. Share this episode with others who might find these stories and insights inspiring and stay tuned for future episodes from The Female Veterans Podcast.

In this episode of The Female Veterans Podcast, I welcome Ketara, a proud National Guard servicemember and the founder of Brave Woman Academy. We explore the often overlooked journey of a guardsman. Ketara shares her multifaceted experiences and the astonishing breadth of skills she acquired, reminding us that the Guard's mission is as critical as any in our armed forces. Ketara gets candid about the unique journey of serving in the National Guard, the often-overlooked challenges guardsmen face, and the experiences that shape their military careers. Ketara illuminates the intricate balance of civilian and military life, the importance of readiness at all times, and the prejudice guardsmen must contend with, as we share stories of service, growth, and camaraderie.

Episode Highlights:

A deep dive into the misconceptions and lesser-known truths about the National Guard's pivotal role.

The revelation of Ketara's transformative experiences, from competitiveness in her unit to the patriotic duty during Desert Storm and COVID-19.

The significance and sensitivity of end-of-service traditions, including the intricacies of burial rights and benefits for veterans.

Ketara's personal challenge of grief and how it steered her to establish a haven for healing, the Brave Woman Academy, to support her fellow women veterans.

Investing in self-improvement and professional development paralleled to grooming, highlighting the importance of nurturing one's inner self alongside outer care.

Kia and Ketara's shared journey of coping with the transition between military rigor and civilian sensibilities, including Kia's decision-making process between the Navy and the Air Force.

The exploration of female empowerment, self-worth, and resistance against conformity through Kia and Ketara's personal and professional trials and triumphs.

Key Quotes:

00:56:31 - "You think you know, but legally, you could be left out in the cold." - Ketara on marital status and burial benefits.

00:57:23 - "Hold onto those documents like lifelines." - Kia advising on the critical nature of maintaining military records.

01:01:01 - "Brave Woman Academy isn't just about healing; it's my legacy, my gift to the world." - Ketara sharing her inspiration for helping others.

01:05:22 - "There's an unspeakable bond that forms when women stand together through the trials of service." - Kia on sisterhood in the military.

Conclusion:

Embrace the honor and resiliency of this inspiring servicemember as we discuss her life-altering experiences and the enduring bonds born out of our time in the military. Ketara's enlightening perspective offers a fresh glance into the world of guardsmen, military standards, and the pursuit of personal enlightenment, providing an indispensable resource to listeners and veterans alike.

Call to Action:

If this episode moved you or echoed your own experiences, please share it with those who might find solace and empowerment in these stories. Subscribe to The Female Veterans Podcast for more compelling conversations, and be sure to tag along for our upcoming workshop with the Barbara Giordano Foundation. Join our community by signing up for our upcoming Newsletter at www.thefemaleveteranspodcast.com. Want to show some support - follow on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast. Subscribe to the YT Channel and share to keep the dialogue going!

In this inspiring best podcast 2023 episode of The Female Veterans Podcast, I chat with Martha, a retired army veteran, who shares her powerful journey from immigrating to the Bronx, New York, from the Dominican Republic, to joining the military at the tender age of 17, and eventually becoming a Medical Service Corps officer. Listen in as Martha recounts her intense experiences at boot camp with limited testing days, her climb through the ranks inspired by supportive leaders such as Sergeant Crawford, and the profound impact that making the leap from NCO to an officer had on her career and personal growth. Martha also gets candid about the emotional challenges of balancing motherhood with her duties as a soldier, navigating financial matters from simple budgeting to investing, and the importance of seizing opportunities. Kia, our host, shares her reflections and connections with Martha's stories, emphasizing the common threads that unite female veterans. The episode concludes with a stirring message about the importance of documenting and sharing women's experiences in military service and Martha's advice to current female service members to take bold actions and seize every chance for improvement.

Episode Highlights:

- Martha's rapid completion of boot camp and the immediate lessons in fitness and self-awareness.

- The heartwarming story of Martha reconnecting with a long-lost friend through a Facebook group.

- Martha's deep appreciation for Sergeant Crawford, whose guidance paved the way for her educational pursuits.

- The inspirational journey of Martha from an immigrant eager to give back to her country to aspiring to be the sergeant major of the army.

- Martha's brave transition from NCO to officer, challenging the status quo and taking opportunities to grow.

- The emotional balance between military service and motherhood that both Martha and Kia experienced.

- Martha's varied military service, her decision to leave for family, and the joy she found in motherhood.

- The launch of Martha's initiative, 'Team Extra,' aimed at improving health and wealth.

Key Quotes:

- 'No matter how tough it was, I knew that every step was an opportunity to become stronger and more aware of my abilities.' - Martha

- 'Sergeant Crawford wasn’t just a mentor; he was a beacon of hope that shone on my path to education.' - Martha

- 'I wasn't just switching uniforms; I was determined to make a bigger impact and reach further, and if that meant being called a traitor, so be it.' - Martha

- 'Being a soldier is one identity, but being a mother is another. Juggling the two is the most bitter-sweet struggle.' - Martha

- 'Every travel, every training, was a chance to meet a new face, learn something new, and bond over our shared service.' - Martha

- 'If your time in the military teaches you anything, it's that the only constant is change. Embrace it.' - Kia

- 'The heroes behind the heroes — our kids — they bear sacrifices, too, and grow up with a legacy of resilience.' - Kia

Call To Action:  Make sure to check out Martha's website, teamxtra.com, and stay tuned for more info to follow her updates on TikTok and Instagram for more on her initiatives, including the upcoming launch of 'Team Extra' focusing on health and wealth enhancement. Join the conversation by supporting the podcast, signing up for our newsletter at www.thefemaleveteranspodcast.com, sharing this episode, and subscribing to The Female Veterans Podcast Youtube Channel.

Welcome back for another gripping episode of the Female Veterans Podcast. Today, we have a rockstar guest joining us - Detrel, an army veteran and founder of the impactful organization, United in Sisterhood. We're going to dive deep into the joys, challenges, and even fears associated with her military service, discussing everything from boot camp down to the battlefields of Desert Storm. And so much more!

Detrel shares the inspiring story of her fight for compensation as a disabled vet, and we'll get real about the struggles faced in finding suitable therapy within the VA healthcare system. Both of us have quite the tales to tell, so buckle up, grab that cup of coffee, and let's get chatting.

Oh, and before we dive in, Detrel and I want to send this reminder to all our vets out there - you are seen, you are valid, and we stand by you. Whether you've seen combat or served during peacetime, we're all part of the same brave family. Now, enjoy the show!

About Detrel

Detrel was born into a family with a deep affinity for aviation as her father, a maker of model planes, always aspired to be in the Air Force. Tragically, her father was robbed of life when she was a mere nine years old. This ignited her own drive to serve in the military, particularly the army, pulling her to the great outdoors which she loved so much. Despite her mother's wishes for her to pursue collegiate education, Detrel found her compromise and joined the army reserves. Through this venture, she paid homage to her departed father, fulfilling the dreams of military service that he was unable to, and forging her own path simultaneously.

Learn More: www.unitedinsisterhood.org

Key Points

Topic 1: Introduction and Background

- Introduction of Host, Kia, and guest, Detrel

- Detrel's motivations for joining the military

- Boot camp experiences of both Kia and Detrel

Topic 2: Military Training and Deployment

- Detrel's experiences in Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm

- Differences in Kia and Detrel's active duty experiences

- Training for gas attacks and anthrax

- The struggles and trauma associated with military service

Topic 3: Combat Experiences and PTSD

- The ongoing impact of military service on Detrel's mental health

- The significance of combat and non-combat veteran experiences

- The struggles associated with PTSD and the triggers that worsen it

- Therapy experiences and the importance of finding a fitting therapist

Topic 4: Transition Out of The Military and Struggle for Compensation

- Detrel's frustration and struggle to receive disability compensation

- Differences in support for veterans from companies, airlines, and employers

- Frustrations and problems within the VA healthcare system

Topic 5: Contribution to Veteran Community

- Detrel's work with veterans having criminal histories

- Founding of United in Sisterhood by Detrel and its growth

- Importance and challenges of creating a support system for female veterans

Topic 6: The Future of Female Veterans Podcast

- Kia's plan to expand The Female Veterans Podcast

- Potential introduction of video interviews and expansion to a YouTube Channel

Topic 7: Encouragement for Other Veterans

- Urging veterans to self-advocate and file claims for service-connected disabilities

- Encouragement for female veterans to seek out organizations for support and connection.

Please share the episodes stay tuned for the newsletter. join by submitting your email at www.thefemaleveteranspodcast.com

Don't forget to subscribe to to the YouTube Channel. Search: The Female Veterans Podcast

In this episode of best podcast 2023, The Female Veterans Podcast, I am joined by fellow podcast host (Your Story Doesn't End Here) and Navy shipmate Rachel Oswalt. She shares her experience of joining the Navy and undergoing bootcamp. She addresses concerns like the lack of challenging curriculum, inadequate leadership, and the impact on mental health. The discussion underscores the repercussions of lowering military standards and emphasizes the significance of supportive leadership and mental health awareness. We share our insights as female veterans of the US Navy. In this episode of The Female Veterans Podcast, we delve into our expectations, disappointments, and the experiences that Rachel had that led to her choosing to end her military career. She gets candid about the assault she experienced and how she was victim shamed. We also discuss her transition out and how she came to create her podcast “Your Story Doesn’t End Here.”

Episode Highlights:

• The changing requirements and standards for entering the military and the challenges of recruiting new generations.

• Personal encounters with instructors who couldn't provide accurate information, highlighting issues in training and leadership.

• Discussion about negative experiences during deployments in Bahrain and Japan, shedding light on the need for improved leadership and support systems.

• Emphasis on prioritizing and effectively teaching leadership principles within the military environment.

• A veteran's decision to leave the Navy in pursuit of motherhood and a career aligned with personal values.

• The importance of better leadership, inclusivity, and support for fostering a healthy military environment.

  
  

  • The Navy's current challenges in recruiting and adapting to new generations, influencing changes in the bootcamp experience.

  • Potential risks associated with lowering requirements, including compromising national security by admitting individuals who wouldn't have qualified previously.

  • Struggles with limited mental health support and accommodations during difficult times.

  • The persisting issues of poor leadership and mistreatment across different military eras and branches.

  • The far-reaching effects of inadequate leadership training, contributing to toxic environments and mental health struggles among military personnel.

  • Challenges of transitioning into civilian life, including difficulties in finding suitable employment due to inadequate recognition of military training.

    Key Quotes:

    01:22:42 - 01:22:48

    • "But you know, the things women deal with in pregnancy that are... taboo and they're not talked about."

    01:23:38 - 01:23:45

    • "The podcast was very therapeutic in a way, but also it was something for me to do."

    01:24:48 - 01:24:52

    • "I started the podcast knowing that it's not perfect, but I'm just gonna start."

    01:28:14 - 01:28:21

    • "The transition out of the military directly impacts the mental health of service members and vets."

    01:32:09 - 01:32:14

    • "You matter more than anyone else in this entire universe because you are all you'll ever have."

    Conclusion:

    Join us in gaining valuable insights into the experiences of these incredible women veterans as they discuss the challenges, transformations, and vital lessons learned during their Navy bootcamp journeys.

    Call to Action:

    Don't forget to share this episode with others who might find these stories and insights inspiring and informative. And stay tuned for future episodes from The Female Veterans Podcast. And don't forget to add your email to the list for the upcoming newsletter!

    
    

    
    

    
    

    
    

    
    

    
    
    
    

This episode of the Female Veterans Podcast I am joined by a shipmate of mine, Pooja, who served with me at my command for a few years. Pooja was staff on the ward of the Naval Hospital and in the fleet. Pooja reflects on  her experiences of sexual harassment, assault, and unfair treatment in the military. She also discusses the challenges faced by veterans, including misdiagnosis and denial of medical benefits. She emphasizes the importance of sharing the unglamorous aspects of military service and the significance of forming strong connections with fellow veterans. In this conversation, Pooja is candid about transitioning to civilian life. She shares insights into the challenges faced within the military system, the importance of support for veterans, and the significance of understanding civilian politics.You do not want to miss this one! Big News: The Female Veterans Podcast is coming to YouTube! Like, Share and Subscribe! Go to www.thefemaleveteranspodcast.com to become a guest, or leave your email if you would like to keep in touch and receive the newsletter that is starting soon! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast. Please spread the word! Share!

Some Key Points:

1. Pooja initially tried to fail the ASVAB but ended up scoring high enough to join the Navy at 17.

2. Both Pooja and I were surprised by the lax atmosphere of the hospital corpsman training compared to other branches of the military.

3. We  discuss their decision to choose Great Lakes as their next duty station in order to stay together with friends.

4. The combination of sexual harassment and a toxic relationship ultimately pushed her friend to attempt suicide.

5. Despite her negative experiences, the narrator was determined to complete her service but ultimately decided to leave and pursue her education.

6. The lasting impact of experiencing trauma and dealing with horrible leadership within the military.

7. After leaving the military, there was a big transition. Pooja worked in various roles including phlebotomy and tech support.

8. Career progression post-military: Pooja describes her stagnant career trajectory, working in phlebotomy, tech support, and customer service before deciding to pursue a new field in psychology.  

9.  Burned bridges in the job market: Pooja discusses the competitive biotech industry in San Diego, mentioning the consequences of burning bridges and the impact it had on their job search.

- "I had nobody watching me... I didn't always make the right choices because I didn't know, you know, I was so naive."

- "We made this agreement that we were all gonna pick Great Lakes... Because we knew the rumor was nobody wanted to be at Great Lakes."

1. "We tried very hard to do something... I literally watched her change as a person... she like deteriorated... I practically begged her."

2. "If your immediate supervisor doesn't take action, you go above them... You go above your supervisor, you're targeted... Then you're a problem, you're trouble."

2. "That episode was the first one that I ever did where I actually read...I broke down crying so hard that I could not continue the episode."

Note: The transcript contains multiple speakers, so it is not always clear who is speaking in each quote.

7. "I appreciate you guys for listening and sticking with me all these years... every story matters and it's important that we share them and that we support each other."

Follow Pooja

IG: @Lifewithpooj

On this episode of The Female Veterans Podcast (best podcast 2023) Diana gets candid about her traumatic childhood. She tells me about the abuse she survived that led to her choice to join the Army. Diana shared how she faced boot camp with a bad attitude and was angry at the world. She details her arrival at boot camp, how she adjusted to her first command and what made her deploy to Afghanistan. Diana is so open and vulnerable as she shares the story of her fiance’s death and how she dealt with it, and everything that happened in its aftermath.

I am so blown away by her experience! We discuss the importance of having a good support system while serving in the military. Diana shares about her marital struggles with her husband's infidelity, and how she ultimately escaped the failed marriage. One of her stories that was so shocking was the near death experience of her son, and it's cause. You won't believe it! She also goes in depth about what led her to transition out of the military. We go deep! Diana shares how her deceased fiance’s family and her church helped her turn her life around and become the amazing philanthropist and inspiration she is today. Women veterans are so resilient and amazing. You do not want to miss the advice she leaves for our veteran sisters. Listen today and hear it before the book comes out! Big News: The Female Veterans Podcast is coming to YouTube! Like, Share and Subscribe! Go to www.thefemaleveteranspodcast.com to become a guest, or leave your email if you would like to keep in touch and receive the newsletter that is starting soon! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast. And spread the word! Share!

Follow Diana

Instagram: @ms._diana_soriano

Support the ministry:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3UAPPS2JR2VB9?ref_=wl_share

Find out why this is a best podcast 2023! On this new episode of The Female Veterans Podcast join us for an inspiring episode about Dr. Ann James an extraordinary 21 year Air Force Veteran, financial expert and coach.  She is a successful woman veteran who has transformed her own finances and is now on a mission to empower other women veterans. This episode is a must-listen for all women, especially veterans, who are seeking to take control of their financial future. We talk about her personal journey, the challenges she faced while serving in the military, and the strategies she used to turn her financial situation around. As the host of the Freedom Battle Buddies Of Color Podcast she offers practical and actionable financial advice that is life-changing and will help you achieve financial stability and security. Not only does she share her story of active duty and her transition to being a woman veteran, she offers fantastic advice. This episode is packed with valuable insights for managing your finances like a pro. Tune in now and take the first step towards a brighter financial future!" A huge thank you for being a sponsor goes to Grunt Style!  A veteran owned company. Please go support them. Use code Baker at check out for 10% off your first order. Please share this episode! More listeners help the algorithm choose this podcast to be suggested to more women who might need to hear it. Thank you for your support! Please go to www.thefemaleveteranspodcast.com and drop your email. I am started a newsletter coming soon!

Connect with Dr. Ann

https://www.drannjames.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drannjames

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drannjames/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drannjames/

Find out why this vet pod is a one of the best podcasts 2023. In today's podcast episode, I am joined by Army veteran, Ami Ritter. As two board members of Hope 4 Veterans we had a lot to chat about that organization later in the episode.  But first, Ami shares her experience in the Army. We discuss gender roles and the male and female differences during active duty. We discussed the patriot missile and her work with the patriots. I learn all about her training what exactly her job with the missile entailed. Ami shares with me her experience being stationed in Korea, and we discuss how important serving was for us. Ami shares her belief that Americans should spend more time serving in their communities even if not being in the military and why it would benefit American society. Ami explains how the entire family is impacted by deployment. She explains to me her reason for leaving active duty, changing her M.O.S. and becoming a reservist - spoiler alert- the reason is common for women. She tells me all about her experience in Iraq and is honest about facing mental health issues. She explains what caused her to get out of the military. She details the traumatic experience that happened to her due to her deployment. We dive deep into the challenges she faced and how hard she advocates for veterans and mental health. This one gets raw and emotional. You don't want to miss it. She gives some awesome advice, too. This is one of the podcasts best. Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Please go to www.thefemaleveteranspodcast.com and submit your email to join us. We are creating new things! Coming soon! Don't forget to share this episode and spread the word about this podcast. Please help it reach more veterans. And stay tuned for new episodes!

Follow Ami's Journey

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ami.ritter.MaryKay

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skinclusionbeauty/

Support Hope 4 Veterans:

https://hope4veterans.org/

Native American veterans may be the most marginalized demographic of veterans through out our history. Not to mention indigenous female veterans. On this episode, I am joined by 3 amazing Native American women who are dedicated to helping women each in their own unique way.  Their passion for working with Native American women veterans has expanded to include all female veterans and their support system. We discuss their background and how they came to collaborate on the creation of the online retreat they have organized to address the invisible wounds of war. "Women's Strength Through Culture And Gratitude" creates a sacred space for veterans, friends and loved ones using sharing stories as a foundation to promote healing and so much more. Tune in to hear what you can expect, and more details about the retreat. To attend the upcoming retreat send me a dm on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast or see below for more information. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Please go to Apple Podcast and give this podcast a 5 star review. This will help it reach more veterans. Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Women's Strength Through Culture And Gratitude A Free Online Retreat For Women Addressing The Invisible Wounds Of War

To Attend:

email carolynhartness1@gmail.com

I felt like it had been too long since we had real talk. In this episode I am discussing what has been going on with me, my thoughts on Veterans Day and I go into my feelings on women being murdered while serving in the military. You don't want to miss this one. Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Please go to Apple Podcast and give this podcast a 5 star review. This will help it reach more veterans. Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

I am joined by Sonia Cotto CRNA and co founder of The Ketamine Clinic of South Florida. We discuss what ketamine is, how it can help a variety of symptoms and illness such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and more. She shares with me the success rate of ketamine therapy and what you will experience at her clinic. Sonia also helps me understand how ketamine feels and how how beneficial it is to help you work through stored and unresolved trauma. Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Please go to Apple Podcast and give this podcast a 5 star review. This will help it reach more veterans. Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Follow The Ketamine Clinic of South Florida

Website: https://ketamineclinicsouthflorida.com/about/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infusionclinicsouthflorida/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/infusionclinicofsouthflorida/

Carma's experience in the Air Force was unique. Especially her field training experience. It completely blew my mind. Carma was already a registered dietician when she entered the military as a fully qualified officer. She shares with me some of the difficulties she witnessed and experienced dealing with very rigid leadership. We discuss the impact of what being property of the United States government can have on your personal life, and what prompted her to leave the Air Force and transfer to the Public Health Service. We also learn about her struggles with infertility and how she navigated this struggle and her career. Then Carma gives some excellent advice for transitioning back to civilian life you do not want to miss! Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Please go to Apple Podcast and give this podcast a 5 star review. This will help it reach more veterans. Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Follow Carma

https://www.thecarmaconnection.com/carmaconnor45922404

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmaconnor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecarmaconnection

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnMVlrZKoHA&t=41s

Female veteran health and wellness coach Sadie joins me to discuss her US Army military experience. We discuss her experiences during wartime, the death, and injuries due to the conflict and the impact that a suicide had on her experience. We dive deep into being both active duty and a military spouse, and how being tormented and punished about her weight post partum lead her on the path to helping others achieve their health and wellness goals. Sadie drops some amazing advice you don't want to miss! Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Please go to Apple Podcast and give this podcast a 5 star review. This will help it reach more veterans. Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Connect With Sadie 

https://www.instagram.com/sadie_getting_healthy/?hl=en

This was recorded on Saturday June 25, 2022. These are my thoughts and opinions. This episode comes with a trigger warning. If you want to answer the questions I asked in this solo episode dm @thefemaleveteranspodcast on Instagram. Don't forget to follow me! And Thank you for your continued love and support. I love you guys!

I am joined to discuss the benefits of micro-dosing as a therapy to treat PTSD, anxiety and depression. Donna of The Portland Psychedelic Society. We discuss what micro-dosing is, how it can help you, and how to begin. Donna shares her story, I share some of mine and we offer many resources to educate yourself, including how to join the veterans discourse online with the Portland Psychedelic Society. Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Please go to Apple Podcast and give this podcast a 5 star review. This will help it reach more veterans. Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Links for Resources:

Books:

Michael Pollan " How To Change Your Mind"

James Fadiman "The Psychedelic Explorers Guide"

Alex Young and Dan Engle " A Dose of Hope"

Podcast:

Third Wave Podcast with Paul Austin

Movie

Reconnect Movie By London Real: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skkUo8Lgiu0

Learn More

https://www.portlandpsychedelic.org/

Follow The Portland Psychedelic Society

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portlandpsychedelic/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PortlandPsychedelicSociety/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PortlandPsychedelicSociety

This episode is all about the work the The Barbara Giordano Foundation does to help female veterans. I am joined by Virginia Giordano, the CEO of the organization, for another chat about how the foundation has expanded to help female veterans from around the world. We talk about specific ways you can benefit from their services. Virginia shares what workshops they have and how to participate. We talk about the Peace Garden that she created to honor women veterans. I am so honored to have been included! This is an organization I love to work with and highly recommend. The Barbara Giordano Foundation can help you heal, and connect with other female veterans and this is a safe space to learn, grow, heal and share. Listen to this episode to find out exactly how amazing this foundation is! Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. To donate look for the podcast on Venmo! Thank you to everyone donating! Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Follow The Barbara Giordano

https://www.giordanofoundation.org/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/GiordanoWomen/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/giordanofoundationforwomenvets/

Find Services or Support Veterans Here: (Organizations I love)

Hope 4 Vets

https://hope4veterans.org/

Passageways Ltd

https://passagewaysltd.org/

Grunt Style Foundation

https://www.gruntstyle.com/pages/grunt-style-foundation

Burn Pits 360

https://burnpits360.org/

Marine veteran Esaia and I talk about the "drinking culture" that can be part of being in the military. We discuss how many who serve are young and not educated in the dangers of drinking or how to manage alcohol intake in a responsible way. Esaia shares the story of what happened when her drinking got her into trouble early in her career. We discuss what led her to spiral out of control and how rehab saved her. Esaia shares the repercussions of going to rehab on her reputation and what she did to survive it. Warning*** this episode touches on sensitive subject matter. Please keep an open mind. Both of us share stories we've never shared before, and through this process Esaia was able to have a change in perspective about what she experienced and release some negative emotions. This episode is so special! Thank you to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. To donate look for the podcast on Venmo! Thank you to everyone donating! Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Follow Esaia's Journey

On Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/soijana/?hl=en

Find Services or Support Veterans Here: (Organizations I love)

Hope 4 Vets

https://hope4veterans.org/

The Barbara Giordano Foundation

http://giordanofoundation.org/

Passageways Ltd

https://passagewaysltd.org/

Grunt Style Foundation

https://www.gruntstyle.com/pages/grunt-style-foundation

Burn Pits 360

https://burnpits360.org/

How are you feeling about what is happening in the Ukraine? As veterans I think we often have very strong opinions about war. Today I was triggered so I thought maybe many of us are. In this mini-episode solocast, I discuss what's lies ahead for the podcast, as well as how this invasion is affecting me and  some of the things I have seen in the news and social media. Don't forget to check out my sponsor www.gruntstyle.com. Use code "Baker" for 10% off. Also, follow the podcast on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. I have listed below some organizations helping with the crisis in Ukraine. Stay tuned for new episodes!

To Donate In Support Of Ukraine

Be Strong: https://bethenny.com/bstrong

Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Ukraine GoFundMe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBq7YjRt1Lg

Project Hope: https://www.projecthope.org/

Care: https://www.care.org/

International Medical Corp: https://internationalmedicalcorps.org/

Theresa grew up in a military environment. She knew from a very young age that her future was in the Navy. But what she didn't foresee was that she would be a finalist in Ms. Veteran America! Theresa and I chat about her experiences in the Navy, including her dream of being stationed at the former NAS Miramar. We talk about what is was like serving in 1980, and how she believed (what was then) the recent women's rights movement made changes to the treatment of women but in the military, it had little impact. We discuss how that affected Theresa's military experience. She tells me about her transition out and how she made it go smoothly. Theresa had a long successful career working with real estate mortgages. Now, she is helping interested veterans with transitioning into this career in order to improve their quality of life. In addition to volunteering her services with not for profit veterans groups she tells me all about her experiences with M.s Veteran America and I get all the details on the behind the scenes! If you ever thought about being a contestant this is an episode you do not want to miss! Special thanks to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. To donate look for the podcast on Venmo! Thank you to everyone donating! Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes! 

Follow Theresa

Facebook: theresam4mva2021

Find Services or Support Veterans Here: (Organizations I love)

Hope 4 Vets

https://hope4veterans.org/

The Barbara Giordano Foundation

http://giordanofoundation.org/

Passageways Ltd

https://passagewaysltd.org/

Grunt Style Foundation

https://www.gruntstyle.com/pages/grunt-style-foundation

Burn Pits 360

https://burnpits360.org/

Caroline is the author of "Fairly Smooth Operator, My Life Occasionally At The Tip Of A Spear" and her story is an interesting one. As a Coast Guard veteran she shares her experience of being a female in a branch that is still almost entirely male. We share and contrast our experiences serving in the two branches of the military that dominate the water. She speaks of the difficulties of having orders to a small base with poor leadership. She shares how she overcame harassment and her transition out of the military into the CIA. She shares (what she she can) about her time working with the CIA, her transition out of government service, writing her book and getting into comedy. We learn all about how she gives back to the veteran community by teaching comedy through the Armed Services Art Partnership. Special thanks to the sponsor of this episode Grunt Style! Go to www.gruntstyle.com and support a veteran owned business! Use code "Baker" to get 10% off your first order. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. To donate look for the podcast on Venmo! Thank you to everyone donating! Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Learn More: 

Armed Services Art Partnership

https://asapasap.org/

Follow Caroline

Website: https://www.carolinenw.com/     

Get Her Book: https://www.amazon.com/Fairly-Smooth-Operator-Occasionally-Spear/dp/1646635221/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1636950516&sr=8-1

Find Services or Support Veterans Here: (Organizations I love)

Hope 4 Vets

https://hope4veterans.org/

The Barbara Giordano Foundation

http://giordanofoundation.org/

Passageways Ltd

https://passagewaysltd.org/

Grunt Style Foundation

https://www.gruntstyle.com/pages/grunt-style-foundation

Burn Pits 360

https://burnpits360.org/

This is a short solo episode. More than ever I hear "thank you for your service" My question is how do you answer that? I'll tell you how I answer it! I also discuss veteran owned businesses and my opinion on how we can better support each other. Find out what www.gruntstyle.com is and all about the work they are doing in the veteran community. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast and on Twitter @femvetpodcast. 

Check out Gruntstyle:

https://www.gruntstyle.com/

Support Hope 4 Vets

https://www.hope4veterans.org/

VR Smalls served during the 1980's as a Navy Hospital Corpsman. This is a story that is absolutely heartbreaking to me, as well as inspirational. We talk about how VR decided to end her career after being stationed at a command where the commanding officer seemed to develop a particular type of interest in her career. VR also endured sexual harassment, denial of her pursuit to become an officer and more. Quickly losing morale her conduct deteriorated. We discuss what fears led her to decline re-enlistment as well as her transition out. VR shares how she ended up in New York, and what happened that caused her to abandon her dream of being on Broadway. I learn all about how that career change inadvertently led to her founding her not for profit the Veteran Women's Enterprise Center in Texas. Find out more below. Check out https://www.gruntstyle.com/ for really fun, cute t-shirts for the patriotic, those who love guns, and veterans of course! Use code "Baker" at check out! They have men, women and children's items. Spread the word! They are Veteran Owned and Operated! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. To donate look for the podcast on Venmo! Thank you to everyone donating! Please share this podcast with women! And stay tuned for new episodes!

Follow VR

https://veteranwomensec.org/leadership

https://www.facebook.com/vr.small

https://www.instagram.com/veteranwomensenterprisecenter/

To Support Hope 4 Vets:

https://www.hope4veterans.org/

On a  very special Veterans Day episode author Lani Hankins, host of the podcast Kruse Corner joins me to share her experience. While serving in the Army she endured so much during her time on active duty. From being labeled as stuck up to being stationed in a toxic "dog eat dog" environment, we talk about the challenges she faced. We talk about how she used humor to cope but the reality was she pushed a lot of negative emotions down. She shares the troubles she faced in her marriage while serving and we dive into the difficulties of her transition back to civilian life. Lani details how she began to turn things around in her life. She explains what she did to heal and help others. We talk about her writing and the podcast and she shares some really great advice. To learn more about her books "Bottled Away" and "Eased Pain" check out the links below. 

To connect with The Female Veterans Podcast follow on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast

Follow Lani: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kruse_corner/?hl=en

Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Lani-Hankins/e/B09L7F79N8?ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vu00_tkin_p1_i0

To Support Hope 4 Vets:

https://www.hope4veterans.org/

I had such a great time chatting with Jessica a veteran Marine Corps officer, and expert shooter. We talk about how hard it was for her even to be selected to go to OCS,  and the training including the use of sleep deprivation. We discuss the importance of good leadership and the impact it has. I learn about how physically damaging service was for Jessica, and what caused her to leave active duty. She shares her love of competitive shooting. We dive deep into mental health, how the military diagnoses people with metal disorders they may not have and what led Jessica to build a therapy practice serving veterans after her difficult transition out. Jessica discusses the value of joining veteran groups. She gives great advice about how to find your strength and build your resilience as a veteran. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Check out the links below.

Learn More or Contact Jessica

https://breakthroughtherapytexas.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Breakthroughtherapytexas/

After growing up in a military family it was an easy choice for Jillian to join. After attending a private military university she joined the Navy as a Seabee. We share stories about experiencing both favoritism and some not so good situations. Jillian tells me all about her "wild child" ways and how alcoholism affected her, and why the military wasn't a place for her to get the help she needed. Jillian shares about her transition out and how the corporate world and the military differ.  We talk about the launch of her business Brave Original Designs a sustainable fashion brand. Find all the links to check it out below! Don't forget to follow the podcast on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast

Follow Jillian:

Website: https://braveoriginaldesigns.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braveoriginaldesigns/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/braveoriginaldesigns/?hl=en

To Support Homeless Veterans: Passageways LTD Website: https://passagewaysltd.org/

It's my birthday so what better day to launch Season 7! This is a big episode, I know. But when you hear Taniki's story you'll understand. Taniki is marine veteran, a co-founder of JT Inspire, an author, poet, speaker and podcast host of "Pursuance: Straight Out Of The Box. She is also affiliated with the Wounded Warrior Project. After a night mission in Iraq goes awry the trauma of the incident brings back memories of an assault. As her life spirals, Taniki finds herself in trouble at her command. She even has a stalker! You have to hear it to believe it! We talk about these things and so much more and dive deep in to how Taniki climbed out of a very dark place to inspire others. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did having it! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @thefemaleveteranspodcast and Twitter @femvetpodcast. Check out the links below.

Follow Taniki

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trrichard4/?hl=en

Website: https://www.jtinspire.com/

This very special episode is with Liz Helm Frazier an advocate for the legendary WWII unit The 6888. Not only are we discussing Liz's long career and transition out of the military, we dive into her newest mission the goal of having this unit be awarded The Congressional Gold Medal. If you don't know about these historic female veterans, you've got to hear this! This unit helped pave the way for all of us to serve and it is unfortunate that the story is not more well known. You can help Liz and the other advocates for the living members of The 6888 get this medal! Contact your state's House of Representatives office and tell them to vote "YES" on The 6888 Bill!! The link is below.

Find Your Rep's contact info here:

https://www.house.gov/representatives

Follow The 6888

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6888ww2/?hl=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/sixtripleeight?lang=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the6888th/

Connect with Liz 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.helmfrazier

More info on The 6888:

https://history.army.mil/html/topics/afam/6888thPBn/index.html

https://www.womenofthe6888th.org/