Dog Tag Diaries

What happens when a military identity is suddenly stripped away, and all that’s left is a blank slate? In this compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Britni Ryan, a retired Navy Corpsman and White House Medical Unit alum, shares how she rebuilt her sense of purpose after her service ended. Find out why Team Rubicon—a veteran-led disaster relief organization—became more than just a volunteer gig for Britni; it became a lifeline. From wielding chainsaws for wildfire mitigation to empowering women leaders through the new WILD (Women’s Initiative for Leadership and Development) program, Britni’s journey is as raw...

What does it mean to truly transform trauma into purpose? In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, meet Star Gibson—a powerhouse single mom, veteran advocate, and certified auctioneer—whose journey weaves through childhood adversity, military service, and fierce community-building. Uncover how surviving military sexual trauma in the Oregon Army National Guard became the catalyst for Star's nonprofit, Vet2Vet Center, dedicated to veteran support, PTSD healing, and inclusive outdoor adventures. She shares honest reflections on her struggles, sources of strength, and the unlikely full-circle reunions that keep her motivated. If you care about mental health, women veterans, and brea...

This episode of Dog Tag Diaries spotlights Amanda Mae, a 20-year Air Force veteran, marathon runner, and founder of The Woman Veteran Calendar. Host Captain Kim gets Amanda to open up about her unlikely journey from a Massachusetts chicken farm to becoming an indomitable leader in and out of uniform. Topics touch on military service, female veterans’ mental health, sexual assault in the military, and what it truly means to find “grit” as a woman in uniform. Amanda shares unexpected stories, from mastering animal noises as a middle child to rising through the ranks, surviving discouragement, and eventually championing women...

What happens when two women who survived one of the darkest days in military history finally talk—together—for the first time? In this emotionally charged episode, Dog Tag Diaries host Kim welcomes Keara and Dayna to share memories of the Fort Hood shooting, the chaos and uncertainty that followed, and how they’re supporting each other years later. Find out how shared trauma can lead to guiding-light friendships, why “community is super important in healing,” and how these veterans navigated limited institutional support.

Curious about the power of storytelling, the role of holistic healing like yoga and essent...

Step into one of the most unforgettable Dog Tag Diaries episodes yet, where resilience takes center stage. Army veteran Dayna Lopez reveals how a childhood scar—the result of a rare congenital birth defect—became the unlikeliest reason her life was spared during the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. military history. Explore Dayna’s journey through trauma, survival, and recovery as she navigates the aftermath, the struggle for quality mental health care, and finding deeper meaning in motherhood and faith.

Listeners looking for real stories about military women, PTSD, trauma recove...

What happens when a Naval Academy graduate trades obstacle courses for combat zones, survives an abusive marriage, and rises to become a high-ranking Marine Corps officer while raising six children? You get one of the most gripping stories in military leadership—and exactly why this episode became one of Dog Tag Diaries' most beloved.

While the Dog Tag Diaries team takes a well-deserved summer break, we're bringing back Episode 19—a fan favorite that perfectly captures the resilience, grit, and triumph that define military women. Whether you're a longtime listener ready to revisit this powerful conversation or a newco...

Step behind the mask with Annette Whittenberger, Army veteran, mental health advocate, and author of The Wall Between Two Lives. In this powerful episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Annette opens up about her 17-year military career—rising to the rank of major while secretly wrestling with anxiety, depression, and unresolved childhood trauma. Host Captain Kim guides a raw, honest conversation about the realities of military service, the pressures women face to “have it all together,” and the challenge of transitioning to civilian life. Annette shares how she found purpose, lost herself, and ultimately reclaimed her identity by breaking her silenc...

Staff Sergeant Kristen Domke brings a powerful, firsthand perspective to mental health and resilience in the military on this episode of Dog Tag Diaries. Listen as Kristen reveals what it’s like to navigate military service while grappling with trauma, addiction, and the journey to sobriety. Hear how a “community that works together” can also sometimes leave you feeling isolated—and what you do when you need help, but don’t know how to ask for it. Kristen’s story includes her combatting stigma, learning self-advocacy, and the crucial role that faith—and a trusty canine companion—played in her recovery. <...

Tune into Dog Tag Diaries for a riveting conversation with Army veteran Dani Shine, whose journey through Desert Storm, military sexual trauma, and a decades-long battle with PTSD and weight gain redefines resilience. In this episode, Dani reveals what it was like being among the first women in infantry training and the unique challenges she faced as a woman in the military. She also opens up about reclaiming her mental and physical health, how trauma manifests in unexpected ways, and the messy, powerful work of healing. Dani has written a memoir "The Weight of Hidden Wounds," that she hopes...

Step behind the scenes of a one-of-a-kind Trauma Transformation Retreat for military women in this heartfelt episode of Dog Tag Diaries. Experience the magic that happens when equine therapy, soulful music, nourishing food, and community partners unite for healing and transformation. Listen as Captain Kim welcomes the compassionate team from Healing Reins and special guests, including a gifted pianist whose intuitive connection with horses creates unforgettable, healing moments. Throughout the episode, hear teasers about art therapy collaborations, the powerful impact of storytelling, and how music and horses foster deep connections.

Looking for inspiration about holistic healing, women...

In this eye-opening episode of Dog Tag Diaries, meet Didi Meindok—a Navy veteran, lawyer, and medical scientist—who opens up about her powerful journey from spunky New Orleans tomboy to Operation Desert Storm veteran and beyond. Discover what happens when your military service is “erased by paperwork” and trauma is dismissed by bureaucracy. Didi reflects on battling PTSD, finding unexpected allies, and the strength of women's camaraderie in traditionally male military spaces. Hear how she confronts moral injury, advocates for female veterans, and flips adversity into advocacy.

If you’re seeking real talk about military trauma, women vete...

Curious how women break barriers in the military? In this special episode of Dog Tag Diaries, host Captain Kim welcomes Phyllis J. Wilson, retired Chief Warrant Officer 5, Army intelligence leader, and president of the Military Women’s Memorial. Phyllis reveals how determination, resilience, and a bit of rebellious spirit led her from a childhood of tree climbing to leading 200,000 personnel and serving in over 35 countries. Hear insights on work-life balance with a blended family of eight children, first-hand experiences with gender bias, what it’s really like to be a woman in uniform, and why collecting and honoring military wome...

Get ready for one of the most moving episodes of Dog Tag Diaries yet. In this honest conversation, Caroline Flores pulls back the curtain on her journey from a chaotic childhood in a traditional Mexican-American home, through the trials of military service, and into her evolution as a spiritual healer. Expect raw truths about mental health in the military—topics like surviving suicide attempts, battling shame and isolation after deployment, struggling with belonging, and the hard realities facing women veterans.

Caroline and host Kim also touch on equine therapy, healing through spirituality, and breaking destructive generational cycles. If...

Ready for a truly raw and real episode of Dog Tag Diaries? Meet Dr. Jaimie Lusk—Marine Corps officer turned trauma psychologist—as she unpacks her journey from mud-loving kid in rural Oregon to national expert in moral injury and trauma recovery. Host Captain Kim uncovers Jaimie’s candid stories: leadership clashes in Iraq, the complexities of trust after service, and the hilarious tale of "Disneyland Jail." If you’ve ever questioned your fit or fought with imposter syndrome, you’ll want to hear Jaimie’s take on finding a sense of belonging after military life. Why does reconnection matter so mu...

Ever wondered what it takes for a "quiet, bookish" girl to command thousands across combat zones? In this inspiring episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Dr. Jenn Donahue—retired Navy captain, civil engineer, and self-described Texas wild thing—breaks the mold. Jenn shares powerful stories about being "the only woman in the room," her unexpected journey into military leadership, and how embracing authenticity reshaped her idea of true leadership.

From building bridges in Iraq to tackling impostor syndrome on center stage, Jenn offers rare insights into navigating male-dominated spaces, finding mentorship, leading with empathy, and balancing career ambition with...

Step into the world of Lieutenant Colonel Jessica Dunn, a trailblazing leader whose military journey spans two branches, two wars, and countless barriers broken. In Episode 46 of Dog Tag Diaries, Jessica pulls back the curtain on the realities of being a woman in uniform during a time when the system was built for someone else. From her days as the Coast Guard’s first female swimmer on Cutter Sherman to commanding convoys in Iraq, she dishes on everything from ill-fitting body armor to taboo conversations about women’s needs in combat zones. Curious about how women navigated leadership, policy gaps...

What happens when a life-threatening event turns your path upside down—yet leads to newfound strength and service? In this episode, Keara Torkelson shares her firsthand account of the tragic Fort Hood shooting, revealing raw moments of fear, survival, and the aftermath. You’ll get a peek into her journey through PTSD, the struggles of returning home, and how connection with other veterans became her lifeline. From detailing how military life shaped her to the unexpected role of essential oils in her healing, Keara’s story is one of hope and grit. Tune in for heartfelt conversations about support, mental...

Join host Captain Kim on Dog Tag Diaries as she engages with Dr. Allison Brager, a woman whose life story embodies courage and perseverance. This episode touches on Dr. Brager’s impressive athletic achievements, including her time as a CrossFit competitor and a record-breaking pole vaulter, while also exploring her contributions to neuroscience and military service. Listeners will be intrigued by Dr. Brager’s insights into the importance of sleep for athletic recovery and mental resilience. Her candid reflections on leading COVID-19 deployment operations highlight the strength and adaptability required in challenging environments. Whether you’re interested in elite sports...

What does it mean to be a “resilient warrior”? In this gripping episode of Dog Tag Diaries, guest Mindy Dougherty takes listeners on a journey from a childhood marked by chaos and trauma to her years as an Army field medic—and far beyond. Facing relentless physical and emotional battles, including rare medical conditions and a life-changing battle with the VA system, Mindy lays bare the realities military women confront, on and off duty. She shares how running became both a literal and metaphorical escape, her path through advocacy, and why finding support networks is crucial for survival. Hear teaser...

Discover the compelling story of Sarah Moore in this episode of Dog Tag Diaries. From the cockpit of Blackhawk helicopters to the awe-inspiring peaks of the Himalayas, Sarah shares her transformative journey. How did a challenging military career, complete with its emotional and physical challenges, guide her towards founding Blue Side Adventures? Get a glimpse into her personal battles with PTSD, the breaking point that forced her to reevaluate her life, and her quest for mental and physical well-being. Her insights on the importance of mindfulness, community, and embracing change are sure to resonate with listeners seeking inspiration and...

In this inspiring episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we welcome Susan Davis, a remarkable army veteran and behavioral health clinician who has charted an extraordinary path from a small lumber town to becoming a passionate advocate for mental health in the military community. Discover how Susan navigated the challenges of basic training, overcame personal obstacles, and forged a new path in behavioral health. Her story offers a powerful message for women in the military and those transitioning to civilian life. Reflecting on themes of resilience, transformation, and determination, Susan's journey reveals the power of embracing one's story and breaking...

Get ready for an inspiring conversation as Dr. Maria Luque, an Air Force veteran, fitness expert, and menopause coach, joins host Kim on "Dog Tag Diaries." In this episode, listeners embark on Dr. Luque's journey from growing up in Germany to serving in the United States Air Force. She shares her unique perspective on the intricacies of military life, detailing both the challenges and joys she experienced during her seven-year service. Dr. Luque highlights the evolution of her career path from finance to fitness, revealing how she found her passion in transforming lives through health. If you're curious about...

In this compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, meet Lorrena Black, a retired U.S. Army Major whose life story is a testament to resilience and transformation. From a challenging childhood facing abusive dynamics to a 25-year military career, Lorrena has continually defied expectations. As she shares her journey from private to major, we uncover her battles with personal adversity, and how she turned these experiences into a mission to empower veterans. If you're interested in understanding the power of perseverance, the importance of finding purpose after military service, and the role of leadership, this episode is a must-listen...

Join us in an inspiring episode featuring Felicia Flake, aka Coach Fab, a woman whose life journey describes resilience and transformation. From a childhood marked by constant change to making life-altering decisions, she shares her incredible experiences as an army veteran and American Ninja Warrior contestant. Discover the complexities of becoming a Purple Heart recipient and hear about the unique challenges and triumphs she faced as a woman in the military. Coach Fab's personal growth from failing military fitness tests to becoming a leading fitness coach is nothing short of motivational. If you’re considering a path in the mi...

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.

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...

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...

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 ab...

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...

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...

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...

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...

In this captivating episode, Dog Tag Diaries host Captain Kim is joined by the remarkable Sharon Caples McDougle. From the pressures of military life to the forefront of NASA’s Space Shuttle program, Sharon’s career is a testament to perseverance and excellence. Listeners will get a glimpse of her early days in the Air Force, working with cutting-edge aircraft and mastering aerospace physiology. The episode highlights her historic role at NASA, where she suited up astronauts for their space missions, making history as the first African American technician in the space shuttle crew escape equipment department. Explore Sharon's enri...

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Major Mom, a remarkable guest whose journey from a tumultuous childhood to a flourishing professional career is nothing short of inspiring. Host Captain Kim explores how Major Mom's frequent relocations, financial hardships, and the disruptive environment of her youth built her into the resilient and adaptable leader she is today. From her early days grappling with stability issues to securing a full scholarship through Air Force ROTC, Major Mom’s story is a captivating narrative of overcoming adversity. Discover her path to becoming a missile combat crew commander and later, a professional or...

To close out 2024 we are re-releasing episodes that you found especially memorable. We hope you value revisiting this conversation.

Get ready for an unforgettable narrative on "Dog Tag Diaries" featuring Sarah Blum, who served as a nurse during the Vietnam War. This episode explores Sarah’s gripping journey, from her initial assignments and shocking first encounters with wartime realities to the advocate she became. Hear about her transformative book Women Under Fire Abuse in the Military, the result of six years of research and interviews. Learn about her upcoming book, Warrior, Nurse, Healer, PTSD and Healing, set to...

To close out 2024 we are re-releasing episodes that you found especially memorable. We hope you value revisiting this conversation.

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...

This week's episode of Dog Tag Diaries brings you the extraordinary story of Shatayia Baker, a former U.S. Air Force member whose life took a drastic turn after a severe anxiety attack. Shatayia opens up about her unexpected journey from a military personnel specialist to a mental health advocate and CEO of Peaceful Therapy Services. You’ll be intrigued by her candid discussion about facing high expectations with little support, her terrifying experience in a psych ward, and how she rose above these challenges to become a published author and therapist. Shatayia also shares valuable wisdom on the im...

In this Episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Dr. Qwynn Salazar joins Captains Dakota and Kim to explore the essence of resilience and cultural humility in the military. From the significance of having a flexible plan for young adults entering service to the crucial steps for a seamless transition out, Salazar shares indispensable advice. Learn how she uses her dog tags as a daily motivator and why emotional impact matters more than titles. With insights on financial management, self-reflection, and the power of human connection, and powerful stories from her life and career, this episode promises to inspire and inform...

In this episode, we sit down with retired Major Liz Valade, a Mustang Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. Liz shares her journey from upstate New York to serving in Special Operations with 13 combat deployments. She reflects on how 9/11 inspired her to enlist, shaping her military path and her life after service. Liz opens up about navigating PTSD, survivor’s guilt, and finding resilience through veteran support programs. She offers advice to women in the military on resilience and setting their own limits, and shares her passion for baseball, which led her to start her own agency as a...

In this extraordinary episode of "Dog Tag Diaries," hosts Dakota and Kim sit down with the incomparable CJ Scarlet aka badass grandma, a marine corps veteran turned acclaimed author. Listen in as CJ opens up about her powerful journey from military service to overcoming personal trauma, battling severe health challenges, and finding solace in Eastern philosophies. Discover how CJ's transformative path led her to become a leading advocate for women's and children's safety, co-implementing the nation's first automated victim notification system. Don't miss inspirational tales of resilience, the empowering message behind her "badass grandma" moniker, and practical advice for wo...