Veteran Spouse Network

Loving Through Loss: One Veteran Spouse Caregiver’s Story

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:14:06 +0000

Life doesn’t always change slowly—sometimes it changes in an instant. In this episode, host Hannah O'Brien sits down with Pavel Ythjall, a veteran spouse, caregiver, Amazon bestselling author, and filmmaker.

Pavel’s life was forever transformed by a devastating accident on the 405 freeway that left both him and his wife Kat—an Air Force officer—with broken necks. While Pavel recovered, Kat was paralyzed from the neck down. Pavel’s journey since that moment is a masterclass in radical love, hard-won resilience, and a redefined sense of purpose.

Pavel’s Message: To anyone deep in the caregiving trenches right now: You are not alone, and your story matters.

Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe, rate, and review the Veteran Spouse Network Podcast on Apple Podcasts to help us reach more military and veteran families.

Understanding and Managing the Mental Load

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:28 +0000

In this solo episode, host Hannah O’Brien tackles a topic that affects nearly everyone but rarely gets the recognition it deserves: the mental load. Whether you are a military spouse, a veteran, a parent, or simply a human navigating the complexities of modern life, you are likely carrying a heavy cognitive burden. It’s time to name it, share it, and change it.

What Exactly Is the Mental Load?

The mental load is the ongoing, invisible cognitive effort required to manage, plan, anticipate, and coordinate the tasks of daily life. It isn't just "the doing"—it is the constant thinking about what needs to be done next.

Crisis Support: If you are a veteran or family member in need of immediate support, please dial 988 and press 1.

When the System Fails, Spouses Step Up_ The Invisible Labor Behind Every Yes

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:29 +0000

When military families receive PCS orders, the "yes" is often just the beginning of a bureaucratic battle.

In this episode, Air Force spouse and registered nurse Marissa Muntain shares her grueling nine-month fight to overturn an EFMP denial that threatened her family's move to England. We pull back the curtain on the gaps between EFMP policy and reality, exploring how mental health stigma, inconsistent base-level implementation, and systemic hurdles impact military families.

Key Takeaways:

EFMP Reality: Why your experience varies wildly depending on your base and coordinator.
Know Your Rights: How to use AFI regulations to advocate for yourself during medical screenings.
Escalation: When and how to bypass local denials and utilize the congressional appeal process.
Practical Advocacy: Why you must document everything and how to build a winning case file.

Resources:

Military OneSource & Chaplain services (for confidential care).
AFI regulations and Congressional representative support.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses mental health, system barriers, and medical clearance processes.

It’s My Turn — Career Development for Veteran Spouses

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:00:24 +0000

Military and veteran spouses face unique career challenges, but meaningful career growth is possible.

In this episode, Hannah is joined by Rachelle Chapman, Senior Director of the Adecco Group US Foundation, to talk about military spouse employment, career confidence, and the power of self-discovery. Rachelle shares her own 20-year career journey through eight military moves and introduces the It’s My Turn program; a free career development program designed specifically for veteran spouses.

We discuss why traditional job-search advice often falls short, how confidence is built through community, and why it’s never too late to invest in yourself.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why military spouse unemployment and underemployment remain so high
How career gaps and relocations impact long-term earning potential
Rachelle’s biggest career lesson: “Ask for what you want”
What makes the It’s My Turn veteran spouse career program different
Why self-discovery is the foundation of sustainable career growth

🎧 Whether you’re job searching, considering a career pivot, or simply trying to reconnect with your professional identity, this episode is for you.

Links & Resources:

It’s My Turn Program
Connect with Rachelle Chapman on LinkedIn
Additional programs: Service Scholarship (launching in March)

Stories that Connect with Penney Samons

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:00:27 +0000

How can reading help military families stay connected during deployments? 📚

In this episode of the Veteran Spouse Network Podcast, host Hannah O’Brien talks with Penney Samons from United Through Reading about the power of Storytime for military and veteran families. From free books and a secure storytelling app to a mobile recording studio bringing Storytime to installations worldwide, this conversation highlights meaningful ways families can bond—anytime, anywhere.

🎧 Free for all military-connected families

📖 Ages 0–18

🌍 Active duty, veteran, reserve, and all branches welcome

Learn more at unitedthroughreading.org

💙 Help us support military and veteran families—share this episode and subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

Navigating Grief, Stress, and Support During the Holiday

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:25 +0000

This episode of the Veteran Spouse Network Podcast explores the emotional challenges that can arise during the holidays from grief and loneliness to the pressures of keeping up appearances. Guest Jasmine Lott, an Air Force veteran and mental health nurse, joins host Hannah O’Brien to discuss suicide prevention, coping with loss, and how to support loved ones who may be struggling.

🧠 Key Takeaways

Holidays can be joyful and emotionally heavy — it’s okay to feel both.
Talking about suicide saves lives; silence increases stigma.
Support others by simply being present — avoid clichés like “it’ll be okay.”
Grief looks different for everyone; honor your own process.
Remember: help is always available through 988, NAMI, the VA, and the Veteran Spouse Network.

💡 Resources

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988
Veteran Spouse Network: veteranspousenetwork.org
NAMI: nami.org
AFSP: afsp.org

Healing from Domestic Violence

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 00:09:37 +0000

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, host Hannah O’Brien sits down with long-time Veteran Spouse Network peer leader Tanya Mac to explore the difficult but important topic of domestic violence within military and veteran families. Tanya opens up about her personal journey—how she came to recognize the signs of an unhealthy relationship, the struggle of breaking cycles of abuse, and the profound impact these experiences can have on partners and children.

Tanya reflects on the role of community, creativity, and self-empowerment throughout her healing process, offering insight and encouragement for anyone navigating similar challenges.

Resources Mentioned

National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://thehotline.org
Veteran Spouse Network: https://veteranspousenetwork.org
Additional local and national resources for domestic violence and mental health support

It's a Mother Part 3_ Postpartum

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:21 +0000

In this heartfelt conclusion to the It’s a Mother series, host Hannah O’Brien invites listeners into her deeply personal journey through the postpartum experience after welcoming her second child. Hannah shares the raw realities of recovery, sleep deprivation, and navigating the emotional and financial toll of early motherhood. From breastfeeding challenges and body image struggles to balancing career and childcare, she offers an honest reflection on the joys and hardships of raising two young children.

This episode shines a light on the importance of support systems, self-compassion, and community for mothers everywhere, especially those in military and veteran families.

Resources & Call to Action

Learn more about the Veteran Spouse Network and find resources for military and veteran families.
Catch up on earlier episodes in the It’s a Mother series for insights into pregnancy and early motherhood.
If today’s episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and join us next month for more stories and resources designed for military and veteran families.

It's a Mother Part 2 - Birth

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:00:22 +0000

In this heartfelt continuation of her “It’s a Mother” series, Hannah opens up about the deeply transformative experience of giving birth.

Episode Highlights

Hannah shares her birth stories with honesty and vulnerability, offering a real look at the fears, challenges, and surprises of labor and delivery.
A candid discussion of the emotional and physical journey of childbirth—from the anxiety of not being in control, to induction, to making decisions around pain management.
Reflections on the societal pressure and judgment surrounding birth choices—hospital vs. home, epidural vs. natural—and why it’s essential to do what’s right for you.
Postpartum realities: the ups and downs of hospital stays, breastfeeding struggles, and the emotional rollercoaster of becoming a new mother.
Practical advice for expectant moms and their support systems on boundary-setting, self-advocacy, and tuning out outside opinions.

Key Takeaways

Every birth story is unique—there is no single “right” way to welcome a child into the world.
Support, compassion, and non-judgment are vital for mothers navigating childbirth and postpartum.
Hannah’s goal is to remind every listener that no woman should feel alone in her journey.

Next Episode Preview

Part 3 of It’s a Mother will explore the joys and challenges of postpartum life—don’t miss it!

Resources

Learn more about the Veteran Spouse Network and find support for military and veteran families: veteranspousenetwork.org

Thank you for listening and holding space for these important stories.

It's a Mother - Fertility & Pregnancy

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:21:48 +0000

Welcome back to the Veteran Spouse Network Podcast! In this heartfelt solo episode, host Hannah O’Brien, veteran spouse and program manager for the Veteran Spouse Network, opens up about her deeply personal journey through fertility, pregnancy, and the decision to grow a family while navigating life in a military and veteran household.

🔍 In This Episode:

Hannah’s return from maternity leave and becoming a mom of two
The emotional, physical, and societal realities of pregnancy and motherhood
How military life and her husband’s PTSD impacted their family planning decisions
Honest reflections on fertility struggles and the emotional toll of trying to conceive
Navigating morning sickness, gestational diabetes, and pregnancy's emotional ups and downs
The power of communication, self-advocacy, and having a strong support system
Unique challenges faced by military and veteran families during pregnancy
A call to break the silence around fertility, women’s health, and postpartum experiences

💡 Key Takeaways:

Every path to motherhood is different — and it’s okay to talk about the hard parts
Military life adds unique layers to family planning decisions
Support, communication, and self-advocacy are essential
Listening and showing up for the women in our lives matters

📌 Resources & Links:

Learn more and access support: VeteranSpouseNetwork.org
Stay tuned for Part 2, where Hannah dives into her childbirth and postpartum journey

🎧 Thank you for tuning in!

This episode is brought to you by the Veteran Spouse Network, in collaboration with Coming Home Well.

Be sure to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast to help other veteran and military-connected families feel seen, heard, and supported.

Supporting Military Families Through Financial Challenges

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:17 +0000

Hannah O’Brien sits down with Tanya Galvez and Rose Wilson from Operation Homefront to explore the financial challenges faced by military families. From frequent relocations to unpredictable deployments, military life comes with unique stressors that can quickly lead to financial strain.

Together, they discuss:

The root causes of financial hardship for military families
How inflation has deepened existing economic pressures
The role of open communication about finances within relationships
Key resources available to military families through Operation Homefront
The power of community support in overcoming financial obstacles

Whether you’re part of a military family, work with veterans, or simply want to better understand the realities they face, this episode offers valuable insights and practical takeaways.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Operation Homefront
Financial assistance programs for military families
Tips for improving financial wellness and communication

#MilitaryFamilies #FinancialHealth #PodcastShowNotes #OperationHomefront #SupportOurTroops #MoneyMatters #MilitarySupport #FamilyWellness

Supporting Military Families Through Mental Health with Mary Beth Goodman

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:00:33 +0000

In this episode, host Hannah O'Brien sits down with Mary Beth Goodman, Clinic Director at the Stephen A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Alaska Behavioral Health, to talk about the critical role mental health plays in the lives of military and veteran families.

Together, they dive into why mental wellness matters, not just for service members, but also for their spouses and children. Mary Beth opens up about her personal journey as a veteran spouse and what led her to dedicate her career to supporting military families through accessible, compassionate mental health care.

Tune in to hear:

Why mental health support is essential for the entire military family unit
Common challenges faced by military spouses and children
Signs that it may be time to seek professional support
How clinics like the Cohen Military Family Clinic are bridging gaps in care
Mary Beth’s inspiring story of advocacy and service within the military community

Whether you're a military family member, veteran, or mental health advocate, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for navigating the unique emotional challenges of military life.

Resources Mentioned:

Stephen A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Alaska Behavioral Health

Navigating Grief & Loss with Chantel Dooley

Wed, 07 May 2025 00:00:24 +0000

Hannah O'Brien sits down with Chantel Dooley, Director of Research and Impact at the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), to explore the profound experience of grief and loss within the military and veteran community.

Chantel opens up about her personal journey as a surviving fiancé and how that experience informs her work supporting others through the aftermath of military loss. Together, Hannah and Chantel talk about the unique challenges faced by survivors, the essential role of community, and the critical resources TAPS offers to those grieving a loved one who served.

As Memorial Day approaches, they reflect on the deeper meaning behind the holiday and how it can be both a time of remembrance and emotional complexity for many. This episode is a poignant reminder of the strength found in shared stories and the healing power of compassion and connection.

What You’ll Learn:

The personal impact of military loss and the journey through grief
How TAPS supports survivors through programs, peer connections, and more
The emotional landscape of Memorial Day for those grieving
Insights on resilience, remembrance, and healing

Resources:

Learn more about TAPS: www.taps.org
Memorial Day resources and support for survivors

Tune in to find hope, healing, and a deeper understanding of what it means to honor our fallen and support the living.

Breaking the Silence - Understanding Military Sexual Trauma

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:00:26 +0000

Hannah welcomes veterans and spouses Rosa Kline and Laurianne Rodriguez for a crucial discussion on military sexual trauma (MST). They share their personal experiences, shedding light on the stigma surrounding MST and the importance of creating safe spaces for survivors to tell their stories. This conversation highlights the resources available for military and veteran families and underscores the need for understanding, patience, and unwavering support from loved ones.

Join us as we break the silence and foster healing in this eye-opening discussion.

The Path to Career Success with Leslie Coffey

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 14:56:08 +0000

In this episode of the Veteran Spouse Network podcast, host Hannah welcomes Leslie Coffey, Vice President of Military Engagement at American Corporate Partners (ACP). Leslie shares her transformative journey as a veteran spouse and how ACP's mentorship program has empowered military spouses to achieve fulfilling careers. Listeners will learn about the program's structure, the diverse backgrounds of mentors, and the significant impact mentorship can have on personal and professional growth. Tune in to discover how support and guidance can change the trajectory of your career!

https://www.acp-usa.org/

Relationship Challenges & How to Combat them with Gretchen Davis

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:33 +0000

Hannah is joined by peer leader Gretchen Davis to explore the complexities of relationship health within military and veteran families. Drawing from her extensive experience as a licensed marriage and family therapy associate, Gretchen shares insights on common challenges faced by couples, including emotional dysregulation, compassion fatigue, and rigid thinking. Tune in for practical tips and strategies that can help enhance relationship satisfaction and foster deeper connections.

Community-Focused Entrepreneurship

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:00:31 +0000

Join us on this episode of the Veteran Spouse Network podcast as host Hannah O'Brien sits down with Wendy Hively, veteran spouse and founder of Charlie Madison Originals. Discover how Wendy transformed her passion for jewelry into a thriving business with a strong community focus, supporting military families through meaningful designs and charitable contributions. Learn about the challenges and rewards of starting a business, the importance of family involvement, and creative ways to give back to the veteran community. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or simply looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode has something for everyone!

https://charliemadisonoriginals.com/

Real Talk - how to navigate the holidays, anniversaries, and more

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:00:29 +0000

Join us in this insightful episode of the Veteran Spouse Network podcast as we delve into the critical conversations surrounding veteran mental health and firearm safety. Hosted by Hannah O'Brien, this episode features Dr. Kristen Becerra and Dr. Emily Knitter from the Worried About a Veteran (WAVE) initiative. Together, they explore the unique challenges faced by military families during the holiday season, including the impact of anniversaries and the importance of proactive communication. Discover valuable resources and tools for supporting veterans and their families through stressful times, and learn how to create a safe environment by discussing firearm storage and safety.

https://worriedaboutaveteran.org/

Bridging Divides

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:00:17 +0000

Join Hannah O'Brien for a heartfelt solo episode dedicated to celebrating Military and Veteran Families Month. Discover the importance of honoring unique differences while fostering inclusivity and commonality within the military community. Hannah shares insights from her personal and professional experiences, emphasizing the power of peer support and community connection. Tune in to explore how the Veteran Spouse Network is creating a supportive environment for military and veteran families, ensuring no one feels alone in their journey.

Finding Your Purpose w_ Pamela Kyel

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 00:00:15 +0000

Your host Hannah O'Brien sits down with Veteran spouse and author, Pamela Kyel. Pamela shares her journey of navigating multiple moves, raising children, and finding her passion as a writer. She discusses the difficulties of maintaining a career as a military spouse, the impact of constant relocations on her family, and the rewarding connections made along the way. Tune in to hear Pamela's inspiring story and learn about her debut book, "Charm City Crab Puff," and its upcoming sequel. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation!

Visit Pamela's webpage at https://pamelakyel.com/

Tackling Safety Together

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 00:00:21 +0000

In this episode of the Veteran Spouse Network podcast, we delve into the critical topic of safety planning, particularly during Suicide Prevention Month. Host Hannah O’Brien is joined by her husband Cody, a Marine Corps veteran, as they walk through the steps of creating a safety plan. They discuss the importance of safety planning, how to involve family members, and focus on lethal means safety. As first-time parents, they emphasize the significance of having a safety plan in place for both crisis situations and the everyday safe storage of firearms and medication. Listen in as they share personal insights, practical tips, and engage in a live safety planning exercise to help you understand how simple and valuable this process can be for your family.

Healing Journey After Suicide Loss

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, Hannah discusses the profound and emotional journey of coping with the loss of a loved one to suicide with her guest Ashley Craig. Ashley shares her personal story, the challenges she faced, and how she turned her pain into a mission to educate and support others. Join Hannah and Ashley for an intimate and heartfelt discussion on grief, guilt, and the path to healing.

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Parenting ~ Active Duty Military and Post Military

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this month's episode of the Veteran Spouse Network podcast, where we are talking about the unique challenges and experiences of military and Veteran kids. Host Hannah O'Brien is joined by teammates Laurianne Rodriguez and Ashley Craig to discuss their personal stories and insights on raising children in military families. They explore topics such as mental health, the impact of frequent relocations, and the importance of open communication. Whether you're a parent, a Veteran, or someone interested in understanding the military family lifestyle, this episode offers valuable perspectives and advice.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

Navigating PTSD with Hannah and Cody

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this month's episode of the Veteran Spouse Network podcast! Host Hannah O'Brien is joined by her husband Cody to discuss PTSD in honor of PTSD Awareness Month. Dive into Cody's military background, his journey with PTSD, and how it has impacted their relationship. From the stigma around PTSD in the early 2000s to Cody's path to seeking help, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the struggles and triumphs of managing PTSD as a couple. Learn about the importance of self-care, communication, and peer support in navigating the complexities of PTSD.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

Caregiving & Protecting Your Identity

Fri, 10 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Join host Hannah O'Brien on an exploration of the unique challenges and transformative experiences of military and Veteran caregivers. She dives into the complexities of caregiving, identity preservation, and personal growth with Dr. Roxanna Delgado. As a former caregiver to her army Veteran husband and co-founder of the TBI Warrior Foundation, Roxanna shares her personal journey and professional insights into the importance of safeguarding one's sense of self amidst the demands of caregiving. With May marking the Month of the Military Caregiver, this conversation is a timely tribute to those who support our heroes behind the scenes. Whether you're a caregiver seeking camaraderie or someone looking to understand this vital role better, this episode offers a beacon of hope and guidance.

Visit veteranspousenetwork.org for more resources and support.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

Healing through Art with Victoria Kelly

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

On this episode Hannah is joined by Victoria Kelly, a seasoned author and veteran spouse who masterfully intertwines her personal military life experiences with the art of storytelling . Victoria's journey from a Navy fighter pilot's spouse to a remarried Veteran spouse and mother of five, encapsulates the myriad of emotions and challenges faced by military families. Her latest work, "Home Front," a compelling collection of short stories, offers a poignant reflection of her decade-long immersion in the military community.

Victoria's conversation sheds light on the themes of loneliness, identity, and the quest for connection that many military spouses encounter. One standout story, "The Strangers of Dubai," encapsulates a moment of profound realization about the complex nature of human relationships, set against the backdrop of a deployment port call in Dubai. Victoria's experiences underscore the importance of creativity as a means of expression and healing, a sentiment echoed in her support of the Armed Services Arts Partnership.

Listeners will understanding in Victoria's narrative, and may even be inspired to explore their own creative outlets. A portion of the royalties from "Home Front" will be donated to the Armed Services Arts Partnership, making each purchase an act of support for this incredible organization.

Whether you're a military spouse, service member, veteran, or simply a lover of evocative stories, "Home Front" promises to resonate deeply. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and directly through the University of Nevada Press with a special discount for podcast listeners using the code MCS2024.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

Traumatic Brain Injuries with Janie Smith

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Hannah chats with Janie Smith, military/veteran spouse and mother of career soldiers for over 50 years, about traumatic brain injuries. Professionally, Janie is a Life Coach, specializing in trauma. She has served wounded Vietnam veterans at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and directed programs for active-duty soldiers and military children in Germany. Additionally, Janie has taught ‘back to work’ skills for TBI survivors and is a TBI support group leader.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

Moral Injury and Relationships

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Send us a Text Message.

Hannah is joined by her husband Cody, a Marine Corps Veteran to talk about his struggles with moral injury and how they work together as a unit to manage his symptoms. Moral injury can manifest into feelings of guilt, shame, betrayal and/or anger.

To learn more about moral injury visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/moral-injury

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

PTSD and Relationships with Lauren Aguon

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

PTSD and how it can affect come in many forms. In today's episode, Lauren Aguon, Veteran spouse, joins Hannah to discuss how she and her husband tackle PTSD in their family unit. Communication and empathy are key to understanding the symptoms and being able identify triggers that may contribute to the behavior and reactions.

There will be a peer support complement event on Tuesday, Jan 31, 2024 at 6 pm CT with VSN Program Director, Hannah O'Brien. As the spouse of a Marine Corps veteran with PTSD, she will facilitate a discussion from the peer lens on managing the impact of PTSD on a relationship. For more information or to register please click HERE.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

Managing the Holidays with Veteran Spouse Emma Martin

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Tackling the holiday can be tough at times for those deployed and/or at home. In today's episode Hannah talks with Emma Martin, CEO/Founder of Full Focus Coaching about her family, managing holidays during deployments and her new role as a Veteran spouse. Emma gives insight into navigating decisions and working together as a unit.

Tune in and learn about a useful tool kit Emma provides to help you manage the holidays.

Life & Mental Health Coaching Guide for your Holiday Question Guide Workbook

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Download on Apple Play and Google Play

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Balancing Care for Loved Ones and Self: An Interview with Amber Vasquez

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

How do you navigate this challenging path of military life, four children, one of them with special needs, and caring of your veteran spouse? Amber Vasquez, a veteran spouse and mother, shares her trials, tribulations, and triumphs in adapting to and thriving in this scenario. Her narrative is replete with lessons on maintaining healthy relationships and preserving a sense of self.

She discusses the evolving role of a caregiver, the importance of creating a sense of independence for her partner, and the power of modelling problem-solving skills and healthy communication for her children. This conversation with Amber Vasquez is a testament to resilience and the power of never giving up. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

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Your Host Hannah O"Brien ~ Telling my story

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Meet your host Hannah O'Brien of the Veteran Spouse Network. Hannah is a social worker and Veteran wife with a story that will resonate with those who have walked on a similar path.

Join Hannah as she introduces herself and her journey to where she is today and her love for her job at the Veteran Spouse Network and the Veteran and Military communities.

Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com

Download on Apple Play and Google Play

Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!

It's a Mother - Fertility & Pregnancy

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:16:45 +0000

🔍 In This Episode:

Hannah’s return from maternity leave and becoming a mom of two
The emotional, physical, and societal realities of pregnancy and motherhood
How military life and her husband’s PTSD impacted their family planning decisions
Honest reflections on fertility struggles and the emotional toll of trying to conceive
Navigating morning sickness, gestational diabetes, and pregnancy's emotional ups and downs
The power of communication, self-advocacy, and having a strong support system
Unique challenges faced by military and veteran families during pregnancy
A call to break the silence around fertility, women’s health, and postpartum experiences

💡 Key Takeaways:

Every path to motherhood is different — and it’s okay to talk about the hard parts
Military life adds unique layers to family planning decisions
Support, communication, and self-advocacy are essential
Listening and showing up for the women in our lives matters

📌 Resources & Links:

Learn more and access support: VeteranSpouseNetwork.org
Stay tuned for Part 2, where Hannah dives into her childbirth and postpartum journey

🎧 Thank you for tuning in!

This episode is brought to you by the Veteran Spouse Network, in collaboration with Coming Home Well.

Be sure to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast to help other veteran and military-connected families feel seen, heard, and supported.