The Waiting Warriors Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Empowering Military Spouses with Financial Education: Comprehensive Guide for Deployments and PCSing Mar 25, 2024

Show notes

Empowering Military Spouses with Financial Education: A Comprehensive Guide

This episode of the Waiting Warriors Podcast features Michelle Bowler and guest Lizanne Lightfoot, the seasoned spouse and representative of Go VA, discussing the unique financial challenges and opportunities military families face.

The conversation covers the importance of budgeting, how to effectively manage finances despite the unpredictable military life, and introduces Go VA's digital platform, The Edge, designed to empower military couples through free, comprehensive financial education.

From assessing money personalities to setting financial goals and utilizing neutral tools for budgeting and planning, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical advice for military spouses seeking financial stability and growth.

Check out THE EDGE: https://mygova.com/

Get more Waiting Warriors content and resources: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction to Financial Empowerment for Military Spouses

01:41 Meet the Expert: Lizanne Lightfoot, The Seasoned Spouse

03:18 The Unique Financial Challenges of Military Life

07:31 Practical Tips for Budgeting and Financial Planning For Military Spouses

13:23 Leveraging Tools for Financial Education and Empowerment During Deployments and PCSing

27:03 Setting Financial Goals and Building a Strong Partnership as a Military Couple

36:46 Conclusion: Empowerment For Military Couples Through Education

How To Navigate Deployment: A Guide for New Military Spouses Mar 06, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Waiting Warriors Podcast, host Michelle Bowler speaks with guest Madison Greene about navigating the challenges of being a new military spouse facing a loved one's deployment for the first time.

These military spouses explore feelings of being overwhelmed and give advice on finding joy and purpose during such times. The conversation covers practical advice, the importance of preparation, utilizing resources like the Deployment Readiness Coordinators (DRC), and fostering community connections.

Additionally, they touch on mindset and perspective as key to thriving during deployment, rather than merely surviving.

*Thank you to this episode's sponsor: National University! Check out their military spouse scholarship and how they can help you get your degree with flexible schedules and classes adaptable to the military spouse lifestyle! https://glnk.io/p987m/thewaitingwarriors

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast - A Podcast For Military Spouses, Fiances, and Girlfriends

00:39 Welcome to The Waiting Warriors Podcast

01:28 Thriving During Your First Deployment

02:32 Understanding the Concept of Thriving As A Military Spouse

05:47 Experiences from a First Deployment

07:03 The Importance of Staying Engaged and Active In The Military Community

09:46 The Power of Mindset and Intentionality

11:45 The Value of Community and Support For Military Spouses

14:05 The Role of Preparation and Empowerment For A Successful Deployment

25:50 The Impact of Mindset on Thriving

29:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

30:02 Sponsor Message: National University

How To Have A Successful Career As A Military Spouse During A Hectic TDY or Deployment Feb 27, 2024

Show notes

In this podcast episode from Waiting Warriors, host Michelle Bowler engages in an insightful discussion with guest Amanda Scott, a military spouse, on the challenges and possibilities of maintaining one's career amidst the unpredictable and hectic TDY schedule. Michelle and Amanda offer actionable advice on building resilience, leveraging opportunities like remote work, and remaining proactive to ensure that careers are not solely dictated by military life. Amanda also discusses her personal experiences, underscoring the importance of mindset, openness with superiors, flexibility, and planning ahead to ensure career progress.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Waiting Warriors Podcast

00:39 Guest Introduction: Amanda Scott

01:01 Understanding the Impact of TDYs on Military Spouses

01:26 Amanda's Career Journey and the Role of RTX

02:10 The Challenges of Maintaining a Career Amidst TDYs

04:17 Defining 'Career' and 'Maintaining' in the Context of Military Life

05:07 Amanda's Personal Experience with Career Progression and Military Impact

11:43 Strategies for Maintaining a Career During TDYs

17:31 Examples of Workplace Accommodations for Military Spouses

20:23 Workplace Accommodations for Military Spouses

20:53 Understanding FMLA and Its Benefits

22:33 The Importance of Having a Plan

25:16 Advocacy and Communication in the Workplace

30:24 Overcoming Challenges and Thriving in Your Career

36:12 Connecting with Resources for Career-Minded Military Spouses

37:47 Amanda's Key To Thriving

The Honest Reality Of Military Spouse Life Feb 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Waiting Warriors Podcast, host Michelle Bowler interviews Tiffany Kelly, a military spouse of 23 years with vast experience in juggling career, parenting, and the ins and outs of military life. The conversation revolves around the need to openly communicate the challenges that come along with deployments, reintegration, and shifting family dynamics. They delve into the importance of networking and connections, their experiences as military spouses, and how seeking compassion rather than understanding can lead to more supportive communities. Tiffany encourages listeners to find meaningful connections away from the internet and shares her experiences in various supportive spaces, like spouses' clubs. Additionally, a discussion on misconceptions related to rank and the need to embrace vulnerability within the military community is shared.

Connect with Tiffany:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-joe-kelley-427a16210/

https://www.facebook.com/tifferjoe

Get more Waiting Warrrios Content:

https://www.facebook.com/thewaitingwarriors

https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to The Waiting Warriors Podcast

00:40 Guest Introduction: Tiffany Kelly

01:04 The Reality of Military Life: Admitting the Hardships

02:00 Tiffany's Personal Journey and Challenges

04:50 The Importance of Open Communication and Support

06:11 The Struggles of Being a Military Spouse

08:55 The Misconception of 'Knowing What You Signed Up For'

15:56 The Need for Compassion and Understanding

18:43 The Impact of Military Life on Family

22:00 Advice for Voicing Concerns and Struggles

24:43 The Power of Human Connection Over Online Interactions

26:20 Finding Resources and Support Within Your Community

26:58 The Impact of Online Criticism and the Importance of Real-Life Interactions

28:13 The Importance of In-Person Communication and Compassion

29:57 The Struggles of Military Spouses and the Need for Understanding

34:24 The Challenges of Reintegration After Deployment

36:46 The Role of Senior Spouses in Advocacy and Support

40:57 The Importance of Getting Out and Connecting with Others

46:29 The Power of Compassion and Connection in the Military Spouse Community

48:19 Conclusion: Thriving as a Military Spouse Through Connection and Compassion

Work / Life Balance As A Military Spouse with Liz Marion Jan 30, 2024

Show notes

n this episode of The Waiting Warriors Podcast with host Michelle Bowler, special guest Liz talks about effectively managing personal and professional goals while being a military spouse during deployment and training seasons. Liz shares tips to establish boundaries, set and achieve goals, and get comfortable with the quiet. The conversation delves into topics of developing communication and dealing with challenges. The Podcast discusses striving for balance, keeping open channels of communication, maintaining healthy family dynamics, and being kind to yourself during this often-difficult military lifestyle. Connect with Liz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethwmarion/ https://libyworks.podia.com/ Connect with The Waiting Warriors: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/ 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:50 Welcome to the Waiting Warriors Podcast 01:48 Interview with Liz: Balancing Personal and Professional Goals 02:08 The Challenges of Being a Military Spouse 04:50 Liz's Journey as a Military Spouse and Business Owner 06:53 Tactical Advice for Balancing Work and Life 12:23 The Importance of Reframing and Redefining Success 14:34 Dealing with Unexpected Challenges 16:25 The Power of Gratitude and Open Communication 19:26 Striving for a Happy and Peaceful Retirement 22:32 Us Versus the Problem: A Mindset for Conflict Resolution 24:08 Embracing the Hardships 24:22 Making the Most of Difficult Situations 24:43 Experiences in 29 Palms 26:17 Setting and Managing Professional Goals 28:46 Balancing Work and Personal Life 30:05 Facing Loneliness and Embracing Stillness 31:19 Managing Professional Life During Deployment 34:08 Maintaining Boundaries and Building Resilience 37:25 Balancing Travel and Family Life 41:16 Key to Thriving: Embracing Individual Days 43:10 Connecting with Liz 43:39 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message

Conquering Reintegration: Expert and Experienced Advice with Corie Weathers Jan 25, 2024

Show notes

Join host Michelle Bowler in this podcast episode as she interviews Cori Weathers, a military spouse, who provides firsthand knowledge and clinical perspective on the complexities and emotions tied to a military family's or couple's reintegration phase. Discover coping strategies, maintaining a strong relationship during deployments, and building resilience. Explore the new book, Military Culture Shift, for insights on effectively navigating the evolving military spouse culture. Tune in for practical advice to adapt to change and build a stronger and more resilient military family and spouse life.

00:00 Introduction: The Challenges of Military Family Reintegration

00:29 Interview with Cori Weathers: Expert Insights on Military Family Reintegration

01:21 The Waiting Warriors Podcast: A Platform for Military Spouses

02:19 Guest Introduction: Cori Weathers, Military Spouse and Mental Health Clinician

03:06 Cori's Personal Journey and Career Evolution

05:11 The Importance of Connection and Understanding in Military Spouse Life

07:24 Reintegration Challenges: Feeling Broken and Alone

13:41 The Process of Change and Growth During Deployment

17:30 Reintegration Strategies: Building a New Normal

25:20 Understanding the Importance of Shared Values in Relationships

26:21 The Power of Shared Experiences and Playfulness in Reconnection

27:32 The Struggles of Reintegration and the Role of Shared Vulnerability

28:39 Exploring Non-traditional Date Night Ideas

32:12 The Importance of Vulnerability and Confidence in a Marriage

36:46 Introducing 'Military Culture Shift': A Book for Understanding Military Life

42:53 The Importance of Positive Leadership and Care in the Military Community

45:02 The Impact of Congressional Funding on Military Families

46:49 Closing Thoughts: Spreading Goodness and Light

Get Corie's Book "Military Culture Shift" (*affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3vV4UXA.

Get Corie's Book "Sacred Spaces" (*Affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3UebMtA

Connect and get more Waiting Warriors Content on www.Instagram.com/TheWaitingWarriors or TheWaitingWarriors.com

Battling Loss Together: Lessons Learned And Things That Helped After A Stillbirth (part 2 of 2) Jan 04, 2024

Show notes

James' Episode: Navigating Grief and Lessons Learned (Part 2) In this heartfelt episode titled 'Battling Loss Together: Lessons Learned And Things That Helped After A Stillbirth ', Austin and Michelle Bowler open up about coping with their grief after a tragic loss. They candidly discuss what they have learned from their challenging journey, vital lessons that have helped them along the way, and the importance of community during such times. They also share their personal experiences on finding therapeutic resources and the impact it had on their healing process. Join them as they talk about showing vulnerability, navigating through pain, and extending mutual support during sorrowful times. Connect with us on Instagram: www.Instagram.com/TheWaitingWarriors -Feel free to look through the 3 "James" highlights where I saved my thoughts and experiences over the years Connect with us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/TheWaitingWarriors TheWaitingWarriors.com Chapter Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Sharing Grief Experiences Online With Military Spouses 02:35 Practical Help and Support For Grieving Military Couples 06:25 Dealing with Grief and Loss As A Military Couple 10:07 Helpful Gifts and Gestures For Grieving Friends 11:10 Dealing with Grief through Art 13:47 Support from Leaders and Community 14:37 Lessons Learned from Grief 17:42 The Healing Power of Journaling 20:58 Navigating Anger in Grief 23:52 Confronting Grief and Fear 24:20 Embracing Anger and Faith 24:51 Personal Interpretations of Religious Teachings 26:53 The Impact of Loss on Faith 27:39 The Journey of Grief and Faith 29:08 The Role of Bibliotherapy in Grief 29:50 Understanding the Stages of Grief 32:49 Communicating Grief with Children 33:16 The Importance of Honesty in Grief 33:54 The Role of Compassion and Empathy in Grief 45:39 The Importance of Seeking Help 49:59 The Hope in Grief 51:29 Final Thoughts and Resources

Losing James: A Military Couple's Stillborn Story (part 1 of 2) Jan 04, 2024

Show notes

In 'Losing James: A Military Couple's Stillborn Story', Austin and Michelle Bowler open up about their deeply personal experience of stillbirth. As a military couple, they also discuss the unique challenges they faced, from deployment to navigating the grieving process while apart from each other. This podcast is a candid conversation about loss, grief, recovery, and the often overlooked perspective of grieving dads. They also discuss the important role of advocacy after the loss and how to navigate life after such an experience. Listening to this heart-tugging conversation may provide comfort, commiseration, or insights for others who may be dealing with similar experiences.

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Topic Reveal 00:15 Sharing Personal Experiences and Grief 00:56 Trigger Warning and Importance of Sharing Stories 01:39 Beginning of the Personal Story: Pregnancy Announcement 02:11 Deployment News and Gender Reveal 02:58 Uncertainty and Changes in Deployment Plans 03:11 Deployment to Chicago and Pregnancy Progress 04:25 Tragic News: Loss of the Baby 04:30 Immediate Reactions and Emergency Leave 05:41 Dealing with the Aftermath Alone 06:34 Support from Friends and Family 09:36 Unexpected Medical Complication: Placenta Previa 12:37 Coping Mechanisms: March Madness Brackets 14:38 Delivery and Miracle 16:02 The Miracle We Didn't Expect 16:56 Dealing with Loss and Grief 17:40 Choosing Burial and Planning a Funeral 19:32 The Pain of Going Home Empty Handed 20:25 The Struggle of Making Decisions in Grief 23:16 Returning to Work After Loss 27:48 The Importance of Acknowledging Grief 32:34 The Challenge of Postpartum Appointments 34:23 Advocacy and Change in the Medical System

You're Completely Normal: The Truth of Military Spouse Life with Shannon Leyko Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, two military spouses Michelle Bowler and Shannon Leyko, talk about the importance of embracing individual normality and not conforming to societal standards in one's personal journey, especially in the military community.

A crucial topic is discussed where the speaker shares a personal story of experiencing grief and the importance of taking time to heal and grieve.

The conversation then shifts to welcoming the journey of motherhood, adopting, and raising children as a military spouse.

They also touch on topics like relationships, careers, fitness, living as military spouses, and more.

A key theme in this conversation is learning and relearning that normalcy varies for different people and that's okay.

In the end, embracing your individual journey and having control over your life is what truly matters.

Get Shannon's Book Here: https://amzn.to/3Ri0Jwi https://www.theexpertbeginner.com/

Connect with Shannon: https://www.instagram.com/shannonleyko/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome Back to the Waiting Warriors Podcast

00:14 The Journey of Healing and Reconnecting

01:40 Introducing Guest Shannon Leyko

01:49 Shannon's Life as an Author and Mother

02:22 The Unique Story of Shannon's Family

03:31 The Inspiration Behind Shannon's Book

05:02 Shannon's Personal Journey as a Military Spouse and Lessons

06:40 The Impact of Moving to Alaska Because of the Military

12:01 The Importance of Living in the Moment As A Military Spouse

15:02 The Role of Relationships in Military Spouse Life

18:28 Adoption and Cultural Differences

20:17 Embracing Our Weirdness and Building Relationships as a Military Spouse

20:38 The Struggle of Making New Friends as a Military Spouse

21:29 Overcoming the Awkwardness of New Relationships Between Military Spouses

22:22 The Misconception of Being 'Behind' in Life for Military Spouse

22:43 The Power of Realizing 'Normal' Difficulties of Military Spouse Life

23:27 The Importance of Taking Control of Your Military Spouse Life

24:28 The Struggles and Triumphs of Balancing Motherhood and Career

24:37 The Power of Taking Control and Making Friends

25:25 The Importance of Inviting Yourself and Taking Initiative as a Military Spouse

29:29 The Journey of Losing Weight While Balancing Life

32:15 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Military Spouse

36:34 The Importance of Creating Your Own Normal as a Military Spouse

37:04 The Importance of Celebrating Everyday Life

38:01 The Power of Gratitude and Celebrating Small Wins

41:00 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Military Spouse

How to Navigate the Chaotic Uncertainties of Life as a Military Spouse with Michaela Rosales Dec 06, 2023

Show notes

Join this interview with Michelle Bowler as she delves into the fascinating world of military spouses and the uncertainty that often colors their lives. In this episode, she hosts an enriching conversation with military spouse and life coach, Michaela Rosales.

Together, these military spouses tackle topics such as navigating transition periods, managing expectations, and surviving the military life's often taxing uncertainties. They discuss the importance of establishing goals, overcoming obstacles, and seeking support when necessary.

Furthermore, they examine the hard-earned wisdom that comes from enduring challenging times. The conversation is brimming with heartfelt stories, insightful discussions, and practical strategies to thrive through the unpredictable journey of being a military spouse.

Tune in as Michaela and Michelle offer inspiration and real-world advice to those seeking to understand and manage the unique challenges of being part of a military family.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Revival

01:27 Interview with Special Guest Michaela

02:07 Navigating Uncertainties of Military Spouse Life

03:26 Michaela's Personal Experiences and Challenges

08:17 The Impact of Uncertainties on Mental Health

13:28 Tools and Strategies to Handle Uncertainties

18:38 The Importance of Setting Priorities and Goals

20:37 Balancing Personal Life and Military Spouse Life

24:11 Understanding the Wheel of Life

24:57 Client Story: Overcoming Job Stress

26:41 The Importance of Mindset and Willingness to Change

29:51 The Role of Expectations in Relationships