In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we sit down with the leaders of the Reveille & Retreat Project, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming trauma for military women through outdoor retreats, movement, meditation, and connection. Our two incredible guests today, Carole and Heather, are military women who took part in the transformative rafting retreat. Their experiences reflect the strength, courage, and healing power of nature that the Reveille & Retreat Project brings to life. Together, we will explore the unique challenges faced by military women, both during and after their service, and how these retreats empower women to reclaim their strength and find their voice. Listen in as we dive into their recent collaboration with Warrior Impact on the Military Women’s River Rafting Retreat, discussing how nature, storytelling, and vulnerability are fostering deep healing and building a powerful sense of community.Resources Mentioned in Today's Episode:Reveille & Retreat Project WebsiteWarrior ImpactBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, hosts Captain Kim and Captain Dakota welcome a military nurse anesthetist who shares her journey through addiction and recovery. After enlisting in the Army and facing overwhelming stress, she turned to prescription medications, eventually leading to a substance use disorder. Her story highlights the vital role of community for veterans addressing and overcoming mental health challenges and coping with addiction. Her story underscores the power of seeking help. From managing family life with an active duty spouse to building careers in both military and civilian sectors, her story offers valuable perspective on paths available for others in the military and beyond. Hear about a new women's residential program supporting female veterans and the importance of community in achieving lasting recovery. Don't miss this episode filled with resilience, hope, and heartfelt experiences.Domiciliary resource mentioned in the episode:https://www.va.gov/homeless/dchv.aspThe veteran crisis line also has resources for addressing addiction: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255. Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

Eva Nevarez St. John is an Army veteran who served from 1976-1982, including time in the Army Reserves. She is the author of When Tough Cookies Crumble: A True Story of Friendship, Murder, and Healing, a memoir that chronicles her military experiences and the deep friendship that shaped her life. Eva is currently semi-retired and living in New Mexico.Episode Description: In this episode, we delve into the life and military career of Eva Nevarez St. John, an Army veteran who served from 1976 to 1982, including time in the Army Reserves. Eva shares her journey from a curious and adventurous Army brat to a dedicated soldier who joined the military to escape personal hardship and pursue higher education.Eva reflects on the challenges and triumphs of her military service, discussing the discrimination she faced as a woman soldier, the deep bond she formed with her best friend in Korea, and the devastating impact of her friend’s murder by an ROTC instructor. She also talks about the positive characteristics she developed through her service, such as discipline and confidence, as well as the lasting caution she feels towards men in power.Throughout the episode, Eva offers valuable advice to women considering or currently pursuing a military career, emphasizing the importance of preparation, support networks, and self-care.Contact and Follow Eva:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563521104576Website:https://enchantedspiritjourneys.com/Books:When Tough Cookies Crumble: A True Story of Friendship, Murder, and HealingBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

Episode Description: In this deeply personal episode, we explore the transformative journey of Annie Emprima who turned their military experiences into a lifelong mission of understanding trauma and its impact on the mind and body. Raised primarily by grandparents with distant parents, this journey is shaped by a sense of detachment from an early age. We delve into the pivotal moments that led them to join the military, including the events of 9/11, financial pressures, and a profound sense of destiny. The conversation touches on their spiritual awakening during deployment and how it became a turning point in their life, ultimately guiding them to a career in researching the complex relationship between emotions and trauma. This episode is a compelling exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the ongoing journey to heal and help others.How to Connect with Annie:Social Media Links:https://www.tiktok.com/@one.emprimaWebsite https://oneemprima.com/Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we sit down with Eileen Bjorkman, a remarkable woman who came of age during a transformative time in American history—the late 1960s and early 1970s. With a natural talent for math and science and a love for sports, she was anything but typical in an era when women were just starting to gain more opportunities, yet still faced significant discrimination. Her journey took her from a computer programming job to a groundbreaking career in the Air Force, where she became a flight test engineer, overcoming the limitations placed on women in the military at the time.How to connect with Eileen Bjorkman:eileenbjorkman.comLinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-bjorkman-b323b51a/X -@AviationHistGalPublished Books -The Fly Girls Revolt Unforgotten in the Gulf of Tonkin The Propeller Under the BedBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode, Doris Sumner takes us on a journey from her roots in rural Vermont to her impactful career in the U.S. military, where she found her purpose in advocating for gender equality. Growing up as one of six kids, with five cousins next door, she was the daring tomboy who wasn't afraid to challenge societal norms. Doris's journey took her from working on farms to joining the carnival to becoming a truck driver in the Army and eventually a leader in combating sexism in the Vermont National Guard. This episode delves into her experiences, the challenges she faced, and how she turned them into a mission to create lasting change.You can find out more about Doris's book Life At Camp: Combating the Sexism We Tolerate and Why the Military Should Take the Lead at https://itsallaboutego.com/memoir.How to connect with Doris Sumner:https://itsallaboutego.com/Instagram -@empoweringgenderopportunitiesLinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsallaboutego/Facebook - Empowering Gender Opportunities, LLCX -@itsallaboutego1Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

This episode of Dog Tag Diaries features Kory Flansberg and her whirlwind experience as an admin specialist turned key player in a military mayor cell. Discover her true stories of the highs and lows of working alongside the Australian Air Force, the impact of strict COVID protocols, and the innovative ways Kory and her colleagues kept spirits high amid lockdowns. Plus, hear about Kory's personal journey as a military woman, including her rapid relationship development, the loss of a friend, and how she maintained her strong partnership while away. This engaging episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in military life, resilience, and personal growth.How to connect with Kory Flansberg:www.linkedin.com/in/kory-flansbergBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we delve into the unique experiences of transitioning from active military service to becoming a military spouse. Melissa Washington shares personal stories from her 6-month Med Cruise and 6-month West Pac deployments during her short time on active duty. She reflects on how these experiences instilled a sense of discipline, resilience, and adaptability that has influenced every aspect of her life.Links and ResourcesWebsites www.WomenVeteransAlliance.com www.MelissaWashington.comSocial Mediawww.linkedin.com/in/washingtonmelissa www.instagram.com/ladyveteransBook Publishedhttps://www.melissawashington.com/authorBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we sit down with a remarkable woman who served both before and after 9/11. She shares her experiences as a Damage Controlman, the challenges she faced in a pre-repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" military, and her journey of navigating life and service on her own terms. Prepare to be inspired by Jenifer Groves' raw and unfiltered experience. Faced with childhood trauma, Jenifer chose faith and resilience to guide her path. Jenifer touches on life before and after 9/11, shedding light on the controversial "don't ask, don't tell" policy and its impact on LGBTQ+ service members like herself. As she recounts her hardships, including a "marriage of convenience" that was more necessary than convenient, and traumatic separations from her children, Jenifer offers crucial insights into the unique challenges military women face. Her candid advice to women considering a military career— "Don’t lose your voice"—is a powerful call to action, encouraging listeners to champion the stories and struggles of military women. With grit, she balanced motherhood and deployments, raising two children who later joined the military.Resources:https://modernmilitary.org/programs/lgbtq-advocacy/Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

This podcast episode is dedicated to Cultural Support Team members 1LT Ashley White (KIA 2011) and CPT Jenny Moreno (KIA 2013)In this compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, hosts Captain Dakota and Captain Kim sit down with Major Jess Yahn, to discuss a trailblazing time in military history. Join them to learn about the groundbreaking US Army Special Operations Command's Cultural Support Team (CST) program, which was pivotal in lifting the combat arms ban for women in 2015. Major Yahn shares gripping stories from her deployments, including a tense moment on an Afghan airfield and a unique cultural dining experience. Learn about her work with Alltru, the impact of educational initiatives for girls in Afghanistan, and about the Women, Peace, and Security Act. Hear how female soldiers like Jess are breaking barriers and making history. This episode is profoundly inspiring and informative and a must-listen for anyone interested in women in combat roles.What is the Cultural Support Team Program?• Background and creation of the CST program by the US Army Special Operations Command.• Purpose and objectives of CSTs in Afghanistan.Deployment and Operations:• CSTs deployed with Joint Task Force elements.• Integration with special operations units like the Ranger Regiment.• Description of direct action missions and village stability operations.Roles and Responsibilities:• Specific roles CST members played during missions.• Importance of cultural awareness and building trust with local Afghan communities.Challenges Faced:• Physical and mental challenges encountered by CST members.• Navigating cultural barriers and gender dynamics in a conflict zone.Impact and Achievements:• Success stories and notable accomplishments of CSTs.• Long-term effects on both the local population and the CST members themselves.Social Media: @alltruincWebsite: AllTru.comBook: Last to eat, last to learn: My Life in Afghanistan Fighting to Educate WomenBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Sarah Blum, a former military nurse who served during the Vietnam War. From her early days as a serious child with an old soul to her experiences in one of the most challenging environments imaginable, Sarah shares her powerful story of resilience, strength, and advocacy for women veteransGuest:Sarah Blum, Vietnam War Military Nurse and Author Sarah Blum served as a military nurse during the Vietnam War, stationed at the 12th Evac Hospital beside the Hobo Woods. She is the author of "Warrior Nurse, Healer: PTSD and Healing" and "Women Under Fire: Abuse in the Military." Her experiences have shaped her into a strong advocate for women veterans, particularly those who have faced sexual assault in the military.Key Points Discussed:Childhood and Early Influences:Sarah reflects on her early years, growing up during WWII and developing a sense of independence and strength from a young age. She shares memories of playing with a simple yet cherished baby doll and coach, and how these experiences shaped her character.Pursuit of Nursing and Military Career:From creating a career booklet at nine years old to joining the military in response to the Vietnam War, Sarah outlines her path to becoming a nurse and the challenges she faced, including height restrictions and initial rejections by different branches of the military.Experiences in Vietnam:Sarah provides a harrowing account of her time at the 12th Evac Hospital, where she dealt with constant casualties and extreme conditions. She describes the intense pressure, the emotional toll, and the unrelenting demands of her role.Impact of Military Service:Reflecting on how her service impacted her personally and professionally, Sarah discusses the resilience and strength she gained, as well as the stories and experiences that fueled her advocacy work and writing.Advice for Women in the Military:Sarah offers candid advice to women considering joining the military and those already serving. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, awareness of the challenges they might face, and the necessity of maintaining personal power and resilience.Resources Mentioned:"Warrior Nurse, Healer: PTSD and Healing" by Sarah Blum-launch date-March 6, 2025"Women Under Fire: Abuse in the Military" by Sarah Blum www.womenunderfire.netQuotes:“I was alone on the street from the time I was three. In 1942, my dad was in WWII, and he bought me a baby doll and coach. It was glorious to me.” “Imagine being a sensitive young nurse in the worst area hospital in Vietnam, working 16-20 hours a day regularly, standing in the blood of wounded soldiers.” Social Media:https://twitter.com/SarahLBlumhttps://www.facebook.com/sarah.l.blum.1Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook:

Are you concerned about the intersection of mental health, firearm safety, and women veterans? This episode of Dog Tag Diaries takes a moment to speak to an advocate and partner for all three. Join us in getting to know a bit about Donna Marie Drucker, her close affiliation to the armed forces, and her advocacy for these important topics. Her conversation with Captain Dakota and Captain Kim explores important topics such as the stigmas and barriers that prevent effective suicide prevention among female firearm owners, and the lack of data specific to suicide in female veterans. Donna talks about her unique background as the daughter of a gunsmith who understands both the importance of gun rights, as well as gun safety, and how this led to her work with the Oregon Fire and Safety Coalition. Learn more about the impact of PTSD, family struggles, and how healthcare providers are being trained to ask the right questions and provide support that respects the veteran experience. Be both surprised and touched by Donna’s personal story of her suicide attempt and how it transformed her mission to help others. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength and dedication of those working to create safer communities and support mental health. Don’t miss this inspiring and informative learning opportunity. Today’s guest –Donna Marie Drucker grew up in an intriguing and unique environment. She attended a small village school with just 30 students, a stark contrast to the education her own children now receive. Her father was both a gunsmith and a passionate military antiques collector, filling their home with an eclectic array of historical artifacts. Mannequins adorned in uniforms, swords, bayonets, and various military paraphernalia became a normal part of life for Donna. It wasn't until she grew older that she realized her upbringing, enveloped in the scent of mothballs and the presence of military relics, was quite extraordinary and not something everyone experienced. She currently works with the Oregon Fire and Safety Coalition (information below). donnamarie.ofsc@gmail.comInformation on how listeners can support the Oregon Firearm Safety Coalition and Together with Veterans NW Oregon.Oregon Firearm Safety Coalitionwww.OFSC.usTogether with Veteranshttp://www.twv-nworegon.org/National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24 hours a day 7 days a weekEnglish/Spanish: 988Veterans: 988 & Press 1Oregon Youthline: for youth to connect with other youth Text: Teen2Teen to 839863 to instantly text with another person Trevor Project: supporting LGBTQiA+ youthText START to 678678 or TrevorLifeLine 1(866) 488-7386Support the Show:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share our podcast with others!Contact Us:Are you a woman who has served in the military and have a story to share? Reveilleandretreat@gmail.com – Put “Story to Share” in the Subject Line!Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we delve into the powerful and deeply personal story of Amber. Born in Redmond, Oregon, and raised in Bend, Oregon, Amber shares her experiences growing up as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses alongside her sister, Ariane. Despite a sheltered and often challenging childhood, marked by constant comparisons to her sister, Amber sought to carve her own path and prove her worth.Key Points:• Early Life: Born to Guy and Jane Thomas, Amber describes her upbringing in a strict religious household and the pressures she faced to live up to her sister’s achievements.• Marriage and Move: At 18, she moved to Quantico, Virginia, with her high school sweetheart who joined the Marine Corps.• Military Service: Inspired by the challenging nature of the Marine Corps, she enlisted at 19 and became a military police officer, striving to prove her strength and capabilities in a male-dominated environment.• Personal Struggles: While serving, she faced significant personal traumas, including being sexually assaulted by her first sergeant, leading to a difficult decision to have an abortion.• Career and Resilience: Despite facing gender discrimination and personal abuse, Amber served for 12 years and worked at four different duty stations. Her perseverance and dedication were unwavering, even as she dealt with the pain and struggles of being one of the few women in her field.• Medical Retirement: At 31, she was medically retired from the Marine Corps due to multiple injuries and PTSD stemming from her experiences.• Post-Military Life: After leaving the service, she pursued education in hairstyling, barbering, and esthetics, becoming a self-employed professional.• Healing Journey: Over the past year, Amber has been living in Sedona, Arizona, focusing on healing and working through her trauma, embracing her journey of self-discovery and resilience.Join us as Amber opens up about her journey, from a quiet, sheltered child to a strong and resilient woman who continues to overcome her past and look forward to the future. Her story is a testament to the strength and courage of military women everywhere.Follow Amber:Instagram: @its_amberviFacebook: Amber Donnellyhttps://www.roadwarrior.orgFollow Captain Kim & Captain Dakota:• Instagram: reveilleandretreatproject• Facebook: Reveille & Retreat ProjectContact Us: Have a story to share? Reveilleandretreat@gmail.comBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

A young woman enlisted in the military seeking structure and a sense of professionalism. Instead, she encountered challenges, sorrow, and hardship while fulfilling her duties stateside and overseas. To cope, she had to suppress her emotions. Only when she discovered a supportive community of female service members sharing her experiences did she feel comfortable enough to confront and work through her emotions, beginning the path toward healing. Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255. We honor Laura's friend, who served in the military and which Laura shared with us tragically lost her life in a domestic violence encounter.

Elizabeth Estabrooks served as the Deputy Director at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Center for Women Veterans (CWV) in Washington, D.C. where she operated as the subject matter expert on women veteran issues, concerns, and needs both within and outside VA, speaking vehemently in favor of changes that improved safety and equity for women veterans. She was the lead on organizational and strategic planning, led development and implementation of new initiatives to support and enhance CWV’s mission and vision, and worked with researchers to lead the production of two Congressionally mandated studies: 1) Study on Unemployment Rate of Post 9/11 Women Veterans and 2) The Prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence in the Veteran Population. She was also the VA lead on development of a first-ever VA woman veterans’ survey to identify and understand low rates of VA benefits and healthcare usage by women.Prior to assuming her role as Deputy Director, Elizabeth served as the Oregon Woman Veterans Coordinator with the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs where she brought decades of knowledge and experience gained from her career working on relevant issues that included: domestic violence, (military) sexual assault, peer support services, community safety, gender- and culturally responsive services, and adult learning. In 2017, Elizabeth co-founded the I Am Not Invisible campaign and photo project for women veterans: a project that, due to her efforts, was adopted as a permanent program by the VA Center for Women Veterans in 2018.Previously, she worked as an independent consultant advising clients that included the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention; Oregon Department of Human Services; Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training; Battered Women’s Justice Project; Mental Health Partnerships of Pennsylvania; and the Edmonton Police Department in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Elizabeth is a Peacetime Cold War Veteran of the United States Army, serving at Harvey Barracks in Kitzingen, Germany. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Gender Studies and Political Science from Eastern Oregon University where she graduated Summa Cum Laude and a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University in New York. She was appointed to the VA Secretary’s Task Force on Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access in 2021 and the VA National Domestic Violence Task Force in 2012 and was a 2013 Fisher-Cummings Washington, D.C. Fellow. She now travels and focuses on writing a blog and two books, speaking, and engaging as a freelance changemaker and consulting as a subject matter expert on women veterans.www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethaestabrookshttps://www.instagram.com/lizzzarde/https://medium.com/@ElizabethEstabrooksTrigger Warning: Foul LanguageBe sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1,

Welcome to today’s episode of Dog Tag Diaries. We have an incredibly powerful and inspiring true story to share with you. Our guest is a courageous military woman who has faced gender discrimination and sexual harassment during her service. We’ll be discussing the profound effects these experiences have had on her and how she has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with the help of supportive individuals and resources. Her story is one of strength, courage, and hope.Kim Liska served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

Welcome to Dog Tag Diaries. This week, Captain Dakota joins us to share her remarkable journey from high school enlistment to her intense deployment in Iraq. What's it like to transition from small-town life to the chaos of a convoy under attack? Dakota opens up about a life-altering event and its emotional aftermath, offering a raw glimpse into the unseen struggles veterans face. Tune in to hear how she grappled with these challenges and the essential role of mental health support. You'll also learn how she co-founded the Reveille and Retreat Project (and this podcast). Discover her advice for future military women, including her own daughter, and learn how veterans can find their sense of purpose post-deployment. This podcast is about the transformative power of sharing stories, and we are glad you are part of it. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, community, and healing.Dakota Olson-Harris currently serves in the Army National Guard and has been for the past 15 years. She enlisted as a tank mechanic then earned her commission as a Combat Engineer Officer. She has two deployments, Iraq and United Arab Emirates. On the civilian side Dakota works as a counselor providing readjustment counseling for Veterans, current service members, and their families. Dakota is a wife and a bonus mom to four kiddos. They have recently added to their family with a baby girl, totaling five kids. They also have two dogs, Paco and Elsa. Her family loves to go on adventures whether it's walks, hiking, camping, or just going on a road trip to visit family.Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.orgInstagram: @reveilleandretreatprojectFacebook: Reveille and Retreat ProjectYou aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

Dog Tag Diaries  provides a platform for military women to tell their stories and speak their truths.  We are not only raising awareness about military trauma, and mental health but fostering a supportive community where women can find strength and inspiration in each other's stories. It's an informative way to reduce stigma and promote healing through open dialogue and exploration of therapeutic modalities. Our goal is to increase connections among women to offer empowerment, encouragement, and a sense of belonging as we each navigate the unique challenges and experiences faced by women in the military.Each week we’ll invite a woman who has served in the military to share her experience and how it has impacted her, or we will bring in a guest who can speak about the healing abilities of specific therapeutic methods. This is a podcast you don’t want to miss. Don't forget to follow or subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and share with a friend who will appreciate these stories and learn about these resources. Starting June 12th, tune in every Wednesday for new episodes.