Episodios

  • Beyond Resilience: Elizabeth Estabrooks Returns to Deepen the Conversation on Military Trauma and Recovery -37
    Mar 12 2025

    Join us in this captivating episode of Dog Tag Diaries as Elizabeth Estabrooks opens up about her gripping memoir and national book tour. This episode continues the powerful conversation from Episode 36 so if you haven’t listened to that yet, we recommend starting there for full context. Elizabeth shares the meaning of resilience and resourcefulness through her own experiences and the collective stories of women who have faced violence. With moments that will make you reflect, this episode explores the emotional journeys of military women, the impact of trauma, and the strength of the supportive community that surrounds them.

    Liz Estabrooks is a U.S. Army veteran, author, and advocate dedicated to supporting survivors and championing the needs of women veterans. Her book, Broken in the Stronger Places: From Resilience to Resourcefulness, sheds light on overcoming adversity and finding purpose in the face of hardship.

    How You Can Support Elizabeth’s Mission

    For listeners interested in supporting Liz on her cross-country book tour, please reference the show notes from Episode 36. There, you'll find details on how to host a book signing, send care packages, or offer emotional support.

    Contact Liz: elizabeth@awomansvoicepress.com

    Visit her page: www.awomansvoicepress.com

    Let’s rally around this incredible Army veteran who has dedicated her life to supporting survivors and advocating for women veterans.

    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.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project


    You 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.

    Más Menos
    45 m
  • Revealing a Powerful Journey from Trauma to Resilience and Advocacy -36
    Mar 5 2025

    This week on Dog Tag Diaries Captain Kim engages with the remarkable Elizabeth Estabrooks, who opens up about her transformative work as a women veterans' advocate and the personal experiences that fueled her passion. Elizabeth's discussion about her upcoming book, Broken in the Stronger Places: From Resilience to Resourcefulness, offers an enlightening perspective on resilience, resourcefulness, and the true stories of women who served. Through candid conversations, they explore the challenges of gender bias, the culture of silence, and the urgent need for policy changes within military structures. Get ready for an insightful journey through Elizabeth's eye-opening stories that challenge the status quo.

    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.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project


    You 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.

    Help Launch Liz Estabrooks’ Book Tour with Love and Support

    Call to Action for All Military Women,

    We’re reaching out to all the incredible military women listening to Dog Tag Diaries. It’s our time to rally around one of our own—Liz Estabrooks—as she embarks on her cross-country book tour for her upcoming memoir, Broken in the Stronger Places: From Resilience to Resourcefulness.

    Liz is a force of compassion, leadership, and change. A U.S. Army veteran, former Deputy Director at the VA Center for Women Veterans, and the visionary behind the I Am Not Invisible campaign, Liz has dedicated her life to supporting survivors of personal violence and advocating for women veterans. Now, it’s our turn to support her as she shares her powerful story with the world.

    We’re calling on YOU to help make this tour unforgettable. If you’re interested in helping launch this journey reach out directly at elizabeth@awomansvoicepress.com -Here’s what you can do:

    1. Host a Book Signing – Do you have a space or know someone who could host a stop on her tour? Let’s help her connect with as many readers as possible!
    2. Send a Care Package –...
    Más Menos
    35 m
  • Breaking Barriers: Kim Henry's Story of Empowerment and Systemic Change -35
    Feb 26 2025

    Discover the incredible journey of Kim Henry on this episode of Dog Tag Diaries. As a Navy veteran and licensed social worker, Kim shares her experiences navigating life with non-visible disabilities, raising her adopted daughters, and the pivotal moments that shaped her advocacy work. Hear about her challenges in the military, including the harsh realities of sexual harassment and the fight for systemic reform. With vulnerability and strength, Kim sheds light on her personal growth and the role of her service dog, Daisy, in supporting her mission. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in advocacy, military life, and the power of perseverance.

    Kim Henry is a Military Coordinated Community Response Program Manager, Founder of The GOLD Beacon, and Author. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), U.S. Navy Veteran, and former U.S. Air Force Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Specialist with over 14 years of experience in military and public health settings. With a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California, she specializes in policy development and program enhancements to support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. At the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA), Kim provides training and technical assistance to legal professionals and victim advocates, strengthening community responses for military-connected survivors. She also teaches social work policy at Simmons University and advocates for disability rights and reducing mental health stigma among disabled veterans, drawing from her own experience as a female veteran with non-visible disabilities who uses a service dog.

    Resources & Links:

    • The GOLD Beacon
    • Kim Henry on LinkedIn
    • Gold Beacon on Facebook

    Books by Kim Henry:

    • Warrior's Path to Healing: A 12-Week Empowerment Journal for Women Veterans
    • Warrior's Path to Healing: A 12-Week Empowerment Journal for Survivors of Violence

    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.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat...

    Más Menos
    49 m
  • Army Brigades to Bestsellers: An Inspiring Journey of an Unexpected Path -34
    Feb 19 2025

    Join us on Dog Tag Diaries as we explore the remarkable journey of Charlie Hudson, a retired lieutenant colonel in the United States Army and renowned author. From her early roots in a small Southern town to becoming a pioneering force for women in the military, Charlie’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and tenacity. Discover how she navigated through uncharted territories, faced with skepticism and challenges, to rise as a trailblazer in predominantly male-dominated environments. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into adaptability, reinvention, and pursuing your passion against all odds. Tune in to hear about her unexpected transition from military life to a flourishing career as an author and the profound lessons she learned along the way.

    Charlie Hudson, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and acclaimed author, has been praised by USA Today as a writer people should know. A 22-year military veteran, she was an “inadvertent pioneer,” breaking barriers as the first female officer in multiple key roles. Her diverse body of work spans over a dozen novels, including two scuba-themed mystery series featuring strong female leads, a cozy quilting-themed series, and stand-alone novels set across the globe. In nonfiction, she shares insights on parenting, travel, and aging. Now settled in South Florida with her husband, she enjoys scuba diving and continues to write.

    Resources & Links:

    • Charlie Hudson’s Website
    • Books by Charlie Hudson
    • X (formerly Twitter)
    • Facebook Page

    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.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project


    You 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.

    Más Menos
    39 m
  • The Path of Perseverance: Annie Morgan on Legal Defense and Leadership -33
    Feb 12 2025

    Step into the captivating world of Annie Morgan, a trailblazing former Air Force JAG officer whose journey from rural Pennsylvania to representing high-value detainees at Guantanamo Bay will leave you inspired. In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Annie shares her unique perspective on balancing her passion for justice and her roles as a twin mom and adjunct professor. Join Captain Kim as she explores Annie's experiences defending airmen and navigating the intricacies of criminal justice. Hear her powerful stories, and uncover the profound impact her military upbringing and commitment to community have had on her life and career. Don't miss this insightful episode that sheds light on the resilience and dedication required for military service.

    Annie Morgan Twin Mom, Adjunct Professor and a Senior Military Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, bringing over fourteen years of expertise in military and national security law. Her distinguished career spans roles at the Department of Defense, Department of Treasury, and most notably as a Defense Attorney within the Military Commissions Defense Organization, where she represented the alleged USS Cole bombing mastermind and made history with her examination of the CIA's torture program architect. A former U.S. Air Force JAG Corps officer, Ms. Morgan has shaped military law through several landmark cases and currently serves as a non-resident expert at the Eisenhower Institute and an adjunct professor at Gettysburg College. She holds an LL.M. in National Security Law from Georgetown University Law Center and a J.D. from George Washington University School of Law. Learn more: Law Offices of David P. Sheldon PLLC

    Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

    reveilleandretreatproject.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project


    You 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.

    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Finding Support During the Era of Don't Ask Don't Tell Military Policy -32
    Feb 5 2025

    Join us on Dog Tag Diaries as Kim sits down with Alejandra Hernandez, a Marine Corps veteran whose story is a powerful testament to resilience and authenticity. In this episode, Alejandra reflects on her challenging childhood, serving during the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" era, and the pivotal role that cooking played in her military life. Discover how Ale navigated the complexities of her sexuality and the obstacles she faced, including harassment and relationship difficulties, all while maintaining honor and commitment. She also shares her journey toward personal healing and her impactful work with The Road Home Program, which offers free mental health care to veterans and their families. Don't miss Ale's inspiring advice for current and aspiring military women.

    Alejandra Hernandez is a Marine Corps veteran, outdoor enthusiast, and advocate for veterans. Serving during 2005-2009, the don’t ask don’t tell era, she gained invaluable skills and experiences that continue to shape her life. Today, Alejandra channels her passion into helping fellow veterans through The Road Home Program, which provides care and resources for those navigating the challenges that come from military life. When she’s not working, Alejandra enjoys bouldering, top rope climbing, snorkeling, and traveling.

    Connect with Alejandra:

    • LinkedIn: Alejandra Hernandez
    • Learn More About The Road Home Program: theroadhomeprogram.org

    Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

    reveilleandretreatproject.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project


    You 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.

    Más Menos
    36 m
  • The Unseen Battles of Darci Escandon: A Daughter of Service Finds Her Voice -31
    Jan 29 2025

    In this powerful episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Host Kim welcome Darci Escandon, a woman of extraordinary resilience and transformation. Darci's story spans a tumultuous childhood as a military daughter, dealing with trauma, abuse, bullying, and even homelessness. Learn how Darci channels her experiences into training service dogs for veterans and advocating for mental health and PTSD awareness. Hear her recount the intense and sometimes heartbreaking moments that shaped her, including the challenges of growing up in a military household and battling complex PTSD. This episode promises to inspire you to face your own challenges with courage. Don't miss out!

    Darci Escandon is a passionate advocate for veterans and service animals, drawing from her own challenging experiences growing up in a military household. Despite the hardships she has faced, Darci has dedicated her life to supporting others, from training her and her husband's service dog to helping veterans access emotional service animals ESA and service dog programs. Her knowledge of ESA and her knack for solving problems with compassion and creativity make her a force for good in her community.

    Connect with Darci:

    • Facebook: Service Dog Nation TX
    • Empowering veterans and promoting mental health by connecting them with life-changing service dogs. We advocate for rescue dogs and raise awareness about their transformative power in healing. IGY6—no veteran should face their battles alone.
    • Instagram: @finn_the_service_dragon

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Learn more about supporting service dog programs for veterans through Darci’s work.
    • Explore mental health resources and support for those dealing with trauma and PTSD.

    Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

    reveilleandretreatproject.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project


    You 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.

    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Advocating for Women Veterans Through Storytelling and Support Networks -30
    Jan 22 2025

    This episode of Dog Tag Diaries features the amazing Amanda Huffman, who made waves by creating the first podcast focused on women veterans. Amanda recounts her compelling journey from an Air Force civil engineer to a storyteller, sharing tales of military life that are both inspiring and educational. Get a sneak peek into her deployment in Afghanistan, where Amanda's interactions with the local population offered eye-opening cultural insights. She also talks about her book, mentorship attempts, and the value of organizations like LinkedIn for veteran connections. Host Kim and Amanda explore the essential support networks for women veterans and Amanda's unwavering mission to empower others to discover their voice.

    Amanda Huffman is a former Air Force Civil Engineer, a military spouse, and the creator of the Women of the Military podcast. Amanda served in the Air Force from 2007 to 2013, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Today, she is a passionate advocate for women in the military, inspiring the next generation through her podcast and her book, A Girl's Guide to Military Service. When she's not working, Amanda is a mom of two boys, an avid runner training for a marathon, and enjoys spending time in her garden or reading.

    Interesting Facts About Amanda:

    • She ran two half marathons while pregnant and is currently training for a full marathon.
    • She’s married to a Space Force officer and is a proud mom of two boys.
    • Amanda combines her military background with her passion for storytelling to empower women in the armed forces.

    Resources and Links:

    • Amanda’s Website: www.airmantomom.com
    • Podcast: Women of the Military

    Social Media:

    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook

    Books:

    • Women of the Military
    • A Girl’s Guide to Military Service

    Call to Action:

    Don’t forget to check out Amanda’s podcast, Women of the Military, and her book, A Girl’s Guide to Military Service. Follow her on social media and visit her website for more resources and inspiring stories!

    Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

    reveilleandretreatproject.org

    Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

    Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project


    You 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.

    Más Menos
    39 m