Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth

Latest Episodes:

144: "With the amount of crap we endure, there's no reason why military marriages should not have the strongest, most sustainable relationships." Military Marriage Day with Bree Carroll Aug 02, 2022

Show notes

144: "With the amount of crap we endure, there's no reason why military marriages should not have the strongest, most sustainable relationships." Military Marriage Day with Bree Carroll

Bree Carroll believes in strengthening military marriages so much that she founded Military Marriage Day, which takes place annually on August 14th (strategically six months after Valentine's Day). She shares a snapshot of what it's like being a full-time entrepreneur, how the Hearts and Stripes podcast was created from seeing a lot of her friends experiencing divorce, her relationship with her husband, her findings from the 2020 Military Marriage Survey, what to expect for this year's Military Marriage day, and much more!

Connect with Bree Carroll

Learn more about Military Marriage Day

Subscribe to the Hearts & Stripes Podcast

https://heartsstripes.podbean.com/

RETURNING FALL 2023

The award-winning podcast, Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth, is returning for Season 7 in Fall 2023 to share inspiring stories of service and self-sufficiency from the military community! This show is a must-listen for military servicemembers and families interested in pursuing financial autonomy while serving our nation.

The show is very excited to announce its new partnership with The Rosie Network, which will include featuring the stories of Service2CEO Cohort Members. Read more about this exciting partnership at https://issuu.com/therosienetwork/docs/me_mag_2023/16

Our main sponsor US VetWealth is proud to announce their newest FREE resource hub: Military Retirement Blueprint — the perfect knowledge library for career retiring military officers who want to make the most of their retirement. This specialized program provides training, guides, consulting, investment-grade insurance strategies, financial & retirement planning, and more. Join for FREE today by visiting: https://usvetwealth.com/war-chest-learning-center-access-the-military-retirement-blueprint/

Stay connected and get the latest updates from...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

143: "Changing the language from 'dependent' to 'family member' is one easy way to make people feel like they belong." Connection & military spouse advocacy with Jennifer Barnhill Jul 26, 2022

Show notes

Hey there, listener! Thank you for checking out our older seasons! As of September 2025, we have revamped our website! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

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143: "Changing the language from 'dependent' to 'family member' is one easy way to make people feel like they belong." Connection & military spouse advocacy with Jennifer Barnhill

In Jennifer Barnill's research of studying the military spouse community, one theme stands out: the desire to belong. Although she can relate as a military spouse, it has become a sense of responsibility for her to collect data to support, represent and advocate for the military spouse community as a whole. She explores why pivotal roles within military spousal support organizations often go unpaid, how the word 'dependent' continues to send a negative message, the importance of finding connection no matter what - even if it's not with fellow spouses, and much more.

Connect with Jennifer Barnhill

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermbarnhill/
https://www.facebook.com/morethanadependent
https://www.instagram.com/weservetoo/
https://twitter.com/more_than_mommy
Learn about Jennifer's work as Chief Operating Officer of Partners in PROMISE http://thepromiseact.org/
Disruptive Storytelling with Military Changemakers Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruptive-storytelling-with-military-changemakers/id1576261817

Resources

2021 Military Spouse Group Survey Findings https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2021-military-spouse-group-survey-findings-jennifer-barnhill/
2021 Military Spouse Group Survey Findings (Interactive Pictograph): https://create.piktochart.com/output/45112575-2021-military-spouse-group-survey-findings
A Military Spouse’s Journey From Annoyance to Advocacy article https://thewarhorse.org/from-annoyance-to-advocacy/
Future military spouse clubs must change to survive https://militaryfamilies.com/military-spouses/future-military-spouse-clubs-must-change-to-survive/

RETURNING FALL 2023

The show is very excited to announce its new partnership with The Rosie Network, which will include featuring the stories of Service2CEO Cohort Members....
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

142: "You don’t really see the mental health issues our servicemembers are facing until it hits close to home." Mental health advocacy with Grant Khanbalinov Jul 19, 2022

Show notes

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142: "You don’t really see the mental health issues our servicemembers are facing until it hits close to home." Mental health advocacy with Grant Khanbalinov

The loss of two close friends was the catalyst to Grant Khanbalinov ("Khan") seeking out and creating awareness of mental health resources. The desire to help fellow service members became so important to Grant, he put his military career on the line when he posted an unapproved video about mental health on Reddit. Grant reflects on when he became aware of his mental health struggles, the biggest barrier to service members asking for help, his terrifying transition that turned out to be a blessing in disguise, what post-military life looks like for him today, and much more.

Connect with Grant Khanbalinov

Resources

Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive https://www.militaryonesource.mil/
Dr On Demand - 24/7 care from the backyard, not the ER https://doctorondemand.com/microsite/humanamilitary/
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or dial 988, which has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Learn more at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

RETURNING FALL 2023

Our main sponsor US VetWealth is proud to announce their newest FREE resource hub: Military Retirement Blueprint — the...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

141: "Look for community and resources. The worst thing that you can do is isolate yourself when there's something you're struggling with." Food insecurity advocacy with Heather Campbell Jul 12, 2022

Show notes

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141: "Look for community and resources. The worst thing that you can do is isolate yourself when there's something you're struggling with." Food insecurity advocacy with Heather Campbell

From a civilian standpoint, one may assume that military families are "taken care of." But PCS moves, spouse unemployment (or under employment), growing families, and unexpected expenses are some of the main factors that can cause food insecurities for military families. Thanks to her background as a registered dietitian, Heather Campbell knew how to feed her family on a tight budget. She realized that other families were also experiencing financial difficulties. She shared her knowledge, which led her to volunteer more of her time, to now food insecurity advocacy. Heather discusses the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, unspoken burdens of military families, the importance of building community, and much more.

Connect with Heather Campbell

Resources

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/4350
National Military Spouse Network https://www.nationalmilitaryspousenetwork.org/

RETURNING FALL 2023

Stay connected and get the latest updates from our Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth community by subscribing to our newsletter:
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

140: "When military spouses come together as a group, they become powerful." The League of Wives with Heath Lee Jul 05, 2022

Show notes

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140: "When military spouses come together as a group, they become powerful." The League of Wives with Heath Lee

When was the last time you saw a monument to military spouses? Based on Heath Lee's research, there are none. Heath Lee is the author of The League of Wives: The Untold Story of the Women Who Took on the U.S. Government to Bring Their Husbands Home and the Founding Historian at the League of Wives Memorial Project in Coronado. As an advocate for women's history, Heath tells the true story of the military spouses who formed the League of Wives, the national POW/MIA organization, and the National League of Families for American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia. Together, these military spouses battle Washington—and Hanoi—to bring their husbands home from Vietnam. With much anticipation, Heath hopes to see the League of Wives Memorial Project bring the League of Wives Memorial to Coronado.

Get in touch with Heath Lee by visiting https://www.heathleeauthor.com/

Resources

League of Wives Memorial Project https://www.leagueofwives.com/

RETURNING FALL 2023

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit. March 2022, Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year. November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

139: "Your resume isn't focused on where you've been. It's focused on where you're going." Reinventing yourself for post-military life with Lori Norris Jun 28, 2022

Show notes

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139: "Your resume isn't focused on where you've been. It's focused on where you're going." Reinventing yourself for post-military life with Lori Norris

Did you know that the military experience has many transferable skills to the private sector? Military transition resume expert and host of the Lessons Learned for Vets Podcast Lori Norris recognizes that service members are rarely taught to market themselves. Since 2005, she has volunteered at the Luke Air Force Base to provide job search education and resume building to veterans. She shares when is the best time for service members to plan for post-military life, how to speak the civilian language, what she considers to be a better word for 'transition,' and much more.

Contact Lori Norris

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorinorris

Resources

Listen to Lessons Learned for Vets Podcast http://ll4vets.com/
Listen to Jen and Scott's interview on Lori's podcast https://www.nextforvets.com/podcast-episode73
Have you wondered if your resume meets industry standards? Download your FREE Veteran Resume Self-inspection checklist: https://www.nextforvets.com/

Check out the latest updates on Holding Down the Fort in our latest newsletter:

RETURNING FALL 2023

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

138: "With intentionality, it's possible to find joy in the present and to pursue purpose, regardless of what season of life that you're in." Crafting your life with Christine Hinrichs Jun 21, 2022

Show notes

137: "You are not alone if you have a child that requires a lot of medical or educational care. We got your back." Children with special needs with Michelle Norman Jun 14, 2022

Show notes

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137: "You are not alone if you have a child that requires a lot of medical or educational care. We got your back." Children with special needs with Michelle Norman

As the Founder & Executive Director of Partners in PROMISE, Navy spouse of over 25 years, and mother of an 18-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy, Michelle Norman and her team challenge the systematic problems of public education by protecting the rights of military children in special education. She educates on the initiatives of the PROMISE act, reveals the 2021 Military Special Education Survey Findings, celebrates their most recent win, credits her tribe, shares how her daughter is impacted by being a voice to the voiceless, and much more.

Connect with Michelle Norman and Partners in PROMISE

RETURNING FALL 2023

Stay connected and get the latest updates from our Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth community by subscribing to our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gTTOdT Questions? Email
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

136: "Our definition of success is redefined by our family, not by what is expected of the norm." Transitioning to do something that matters with Genevieve and Chris Kruger Jun 07, 2022

Show notes

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136: "Our definition of success is redefined by our family, not by what is expected of the norm." Transitioning to do something that matters with Genevieve and Chris Kruger

It's an overwhelming and exciting time for Genevieve and Chris Kruger as they are months away from retirement! As a retiring career military family, they share how they strategically planned for their transition - years in advance, their definition of success, how they sustained their marriage with faith and counseling, a glimpse into their plans for post-military life, and much more.

Contact Genevieve and Chris:

Resources

Veteran Wealth Secrets: The Post-Military Playbook for Obtaining Autonomy and Financial Control in the Modern Economy by Scott R. Tucker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM61QLR/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_4CBEKVM53841APBGFXQ1
Military OneSource https://www.militaryonesource.mil/
USO Pathfinder® Transition Program https://www.uso.org/programs/uso-pathfinder-transition-program
It’s a Military Life Cohort Immersion Program https://itsamilitarylife.org/cohort-immersion-program/

RETURNING FALL 2023

135: "When you hurt so bad, you think that people don't love you. But the truth is... they do." Healing and advocacy through storytelling with Olivia Nunn May 31, 2022

Show notes

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135: "When you hurt so bad, you think that people don't love you. But the truth is... they do." Healing and advocacy through storytelling with Olivia Nunn

What would you do if you finally said, "I need help," only to be told that the earliest you can be helped is in six months? This was the situation Lt. Col. Olivia Nunn and Soldier for Life Director of Communications found herself in when faced with many challenges around her military transition. Newly retired, Olivia openly shares her story and mental health advocacy as the podcast host and producer for the Never Stop Serving podcast series for Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). She brings light to the lack of resources for our military community, the importance of advocating for lower enlisted ranks, the turning point to her suicidal ideations, creating change as a community, and much more.

Connect with Olivia

Resources

MOAA is the nation's largest and most influential association of military officers. It is an independent, nonprofit, politically nonpartisan organization. https://www.moaa.org/
MOAA’s Never Stop Serving Podcast https://www.moaa.org/content/topic-and-landing-pages/moaas-never-stop-serving-podcast/
Jen and Jenny Lynne's Interview - Holding Down the Fort - The Military Family and the Backbone that Keeps it Together https://www.buzzsprout.com/1847212/10184211-holding-down-the-fort-the-military-family-and-the-backbone-that-keeps-it-together
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or dial 988, which has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Learn more at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
For additional mental health resources, check out our past newsletter from December 13, 2021 https://us4.campaign-archive.com/?u=713c5c25a1186d1f165bc7edd&id=9228ea652a

RETURNING FALL 2023

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