Shows
Got Marketing?Starting and Growing a Podcast in 2023 with Beck RaynerAlmost anyone can start a podcast in 2023, but should they?
It may seem easy enough from the outside, but podcasts are a gut load of work. Is launching a podcast worth it, or are they just a vanity project?
On this episode, I chat with Beck Rayner, the founder of Military Life, an online community for defence partners and the host of the Military Life podcast.
The Military Life podcast is coming up on its 150th episode, and with 85,000 downloads, Beck is in the top 5% of podcasters globally.
She is now pa...
2023-04-2850 min
Military LifeMilitary Life Community Connectors EXPLAINED-PART 2Community Connectors EXPLAINED-PART 2 Maybe you have heard about Military Life Community Connectors or maybe you want to know more about them. This episode is all about who they are and what they do, and why I felt there was a need for the Military Life Community Connector Program. No one quite gets you like a fellow Defence Partner but finding and connecting with other partners can be both tricky and nerve-wracking! It took me 10 years to find a Defence Partner friend. Partly because I didn't realise what I was mi...
2022-10-0421 minMilitary LifeMilitary Life Community Connectors EXPLAINED-PART 1Community Connectors EXPLAINED-PART 1 Maybe you have heard about Military Life Community Connectors or maybe you want to know more about them. This episode is all about who they are and what they do, and why I felt there was a need for the Military Life Community Connector Program. No one quite gets you like a fellow Defence Partner but finding and connecting with other partners can be both tricky and nerve-wracking! It took me 10 years to find a Defence Partner friend. Partly because I didn't realise what I w...
2022-10-0421 minMilitary LifeA mindset shift made all the differenceIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to RAAF spouse Nicole about why a mindset shift has totally changed the way she experiences defence life. Nicole and I also talk about; Meeting her now Husband while he was studying at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Realising that the member doesn't just sign up for a job but a lifestyle Moving to Newcastle for her husbands first posting and not being formally recognised as a couple Trying to find housing, work and friends while not yet being entitled to any support Feeling like she di...
2021-04-1529 minMilitary LifeLegacy-Who are they & Who do they support?In this week's podcast episode, I talk to NSW Legacy President Nikki Hollis about how Legacy started, what they’re about and who they support. Nikki and I also talk about; How a dependant of an ADF member or Veteran can access support Why a dependant can put their hand up for support at anytime What you can access support through Legacy for and the process Breaking down the misconception that Legacy is only for older widows The help they offer for ADF families experiencing hardship due to the member or veteran having a phy...
2021-04-0113 minMilitary LifeThe Army is my Husbands job not mineIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to spouse Amanda about why she doesn't allow her Army Husbands job to control her life. Amanda and I also talk about; Not really knowing, in the beginning, what it meant to be an Army spouse Why she was hesitant to even acknowledge she was a spouse Moving in together and experiencing a deployment 6 months into the relationship A horrible experience with another Army wife and how it impacted her forming a support network Being MWDU for the majority of their relationship and why it works for th...
2021-03-2428 minMilitary LifeA Tindal PostingIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to RAAF spouse Katie about being posted to Tindal, the location at the bottom of her preference sheet. Katie and I also talk about; Having no knowledge of defence life and going into the relationship blind Moving out of home in NSW to relocating to WA on her first posting with her military member Finding her feet in WA and why it is where Katie and her Husband would love to end up Why Katie embraces being able to move around the country and live in different lo...
2021-03-1721 minMilitary LifeStories of Miscarriage & Defence LifeToday’s podcast episode is on a topic that isn’t often spoken about- Miscarriage. 1 in 4 women will experience a miscarriage. The vast majority of miscarriages will happen in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, often at a time when the exciting and happy news has only been shared with a few friends and family members if any. It can be a lonely time. There is often no answers as to why you experience a miscarriage or anything you can do to prevent one. Today seven brave spouses are sharing their journey to becoming preg...
2021-03-031h 37Military LifeFinancial help for Defence FamiliesIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to Belinda Wilson, CEO of Veteran and Family financial support organisation Bravery Trust. Belinda and I talk about; The support Bravery Trust offer Veterans who have a physical injury or mental illness as a result of their service Why Bravery Trust offers financial support to Veterans and their families during and after their service When a Veteran or Spouse should put their hand up for financial assistance Why financial problems often hinder a Veterans recovery from a physical or mental illness The immediate support Bravery Trust offers an...
2021-02-2422 minMilitary LifeGood Communication & MWDUIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to Army couple Julia and Jai about why good communication is key. We also talk about; what happened when they met each other just 10 days before Jai was due to deploy some of the things a defence member thinks about before getting into a relationship how they used email to build a strong foundation before Jai returned from deployment an unexpected injury for Jai, the 9 month rehab and why there was a silver lining another deployment, planning a wedding, and returning to a new house good communication an...
2021-02-1742 minMilitary LifeHow to be ok with going with the flow!In this week's podcast episode, I talk to spouse Kim about being adaptable and being ok with "going with the flow." Kim and I also talk about; what happens when defence suddenly becomes part of your plan a not-so-great first move and why Kim didn't let it set the tone for spouse life her husband deploying a month into their first posting how Kim used that first deployment to establish a friend network navigating finding work as a spouse in an area where jobs are scarce how their family cope with sea postings every 2 y...
2021-02-1027 minMilitary LifeBuying a Business and Working from HomeIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to spouse Ash about buying a business and the isolation of working from home. Ash and I also talk about; why having a friendship before dating her now-husband created a great foundation how working on base gave Ash an understanding of how military works going from working on base with her husband to being a stay at home mum and business owner why Ash decided to buy a business and the huge changes working for yourself brings their next posting and looking forward to having family and f...
2021-02-0326 minMilitary LifeInfertility & Defence LifeIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to spouse Bianca about infertility and defence life. Bianca and I also talk about; coping with all that comes with IVF when your Husband is away why it took multiple rounds of IVF, surgeries and 3 doctors to try something out of the box the conversation with a long lost friend that would be the reason she would finally fall pregnant how she kept faith for 12 years before eventually becoming a Mum why she feels being a defence kid herself will give her a deeper understanding of her d...
2021-01-2826 minMilitary LifeBeing a Blended Family & the MilitaryIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to spouse Sarah about being a blended family and the military lifestyle. Sarah and I also talk about; The injuries that have kept her Husband home for the majority of their relationship Why having support from her husband's rehab unit made all the difference Waiting on their next posting and what it might mean for their blended family Why choosing to live separated may be their only and best option in the future The positive impact Open Arms has had on their relationship and their family Why s...
2021-01-2032 minMilitary LifeMaxx the service dog saved my HusbandIn this week's podcast episode, I talk to Army spouse Mel about a service dog called Maxx and how he saved her husband. Mel and I also talk about; What it's like when your Husband deploys every two years Her Husband's decision to be proactive in seeking mental health support Why a service dog was the right fit for her Husband and their family The Defence Community Dog program and the support the Defence Bank Foundation gives the program The impact Maxx has had on her Husband's everyday life and their family life The t...
2021-01-1430 minMilitary LifeMilitary Police, Finding work & Following your Passion In this week's podcast episode, I talk to Air Force spouse Renee about what it's like when your Husband is Military Police, her struggles when it comes to finding employment and why following your passion is so important. Renee and I also talk about; How she and her husband met, by chance, at a swing dance class Why her husband wanting to apply for the Air Force was a joint decision The stability defence offered their family at a time of uncertainty Why her husband joined as a reservist and then went fu...
2020-12-1622 minMilitary LifeThe Australian Military Wives Choir In this week's podcast episode, I talk to National Music Director of the Australian Military Wives Choir Cath Parsons about her journey as a spouse and where the idea for the AMWChoir came from. Cath and I also talk about; How the choir went from being a handful of people in Canberra to 12 locations around Australia Why the Choir is about what we do as spouses rather than what our military partners do at work How the choir creates a safe space for spouses and why all singing abilities are welcome Why th...
2020-12-0927 minMilitary LifeArmy Spouse Life & Spending 8 out of 12 months apart In this week's podcast episode I talk to Zoe about the first few years of being an Army spouse and the ups and downs of spending 8 out of the last 12 months apart from her military husband. Zoe and I also talk about; Why keeping busy was key while her Husband was away doing his initial training Her first posting experience only a few hours from home Being flexible with her work options & open to posting around Australia Finding out about support & DCO years into her spouse journey
2020-12-0231 minMilitary LifeThat taboo topic... money This week's podcast episode is all about money! Some useful tips on how to spend it, save it and invest it. Defence Bank's Stuart Payne, Celia Cannavan and Emma Dalglish talk us through; Budgeting and how to work out our money goals How to make use of free helpful resources like https://moneysmart.gov.au/ How to come up with an achievable savings plan Credit Cards and why you should pay more than the minimum
2020-11-2611 minMilitary LifeFulltime Army to Reserves to Fulltime again In this week's podcast episode I talk to spouse Lauren about what it's like to go from being a fulltime defence family to a reserves family and then back to fulltime defence. Lauren and I also talk about; What changes when you're no longer fulltime defence How it works when your partner is now a reservist The freedom and opportunities reserve time brings Why they decided to go back to being a fulltime defence family How CO
2020-11-1924 minMilitary LifeKookaburra Kids Foundation & Support for Defence Kids aged 8-18 This week's podcast episode is all about the Kookaburra Kids Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation supporting children aged 8-18 years, living in families affected by mental illness. I talk to Community Engagement Manager, Sarah Hartley about; Why they introduced a program just for defence kids What the Kookaburra Kids Defence Kids Program is all about Why age-appropriate prevention and early intervention mental health services are important Why support for kids living in families affected by mental illness makes a difference How Kookaburra Kids make use of a peer-based social and activity-based format to help...
2020-11-1118 minMilitary LifeThe first few years of being a Navy spouseThis week on the podcast, I talk to Morgan about the ups and downs of her first few years as a Military spouse. Morgan and I talk about; The 18 month wait for her partner to leave for initial training The transition from civilian couple to a military couple Her partner leaving for Cerberus and having no contact Morgan's last-minute decision to move with her partner while he completed IET's Not being able to find work and the impact that had on their relationship Their first posting to Sydney and first deployment experience What happened w...
2020-11-0531 minMilitary LifeOPEN ARMS- When, How & Who can access services This week's podcast episode is all about Open Arms, a FREE counselling service available to spouses, current ADF members, veterans and their families. I talk to National Manager of Open Arms, Dr Stephanie Hodson about; Who can access support and services through Open Arms Why the service changed its name from VVCS to Open Arms What type of support you can access in-person and over the phone When you should reach out for support & some signs to look out for
2020-10-2825 minMilitary LifeA British spouse experiencing a posting in Australia This week on the podcast I talk to British spouse Cheryl about her Australian posting experience. Cheryl and I also talk about; Her military member being sent to Iraq in the first year of their relationship Some of the differences between the British and Australian military Why a lot of military families choose MWDU in the UK What it was like to move to Australia and find her feet in Oz How COVID and living in Victoria during lockdown has impacted their Australian Posting experience Her positive review of living on b...
2020-10-2122 minMilitary Life3-5year old Defence Kids-Research & Support After realising studies about Australian defence kids were rare, this week's podcast guest, Dr Marg Rogers from the University of New England, decided to change that. Dr Rogers focused her recent PhD studies on giving 2-5 year old defence kids a voice by centring her research around deployment, separation, how kids in the 2-5 year old age bracket are affected and how they can be best supported. Dr Rogers and I also talk about; Collecting the data from the defence kids using the mosaic approach which allowed them to engag...
2020-10-0837 minMilitary LifeFirst posting, COVID & coming to terms with being a Defence FamilyThis week on the podcast I talk to RAAF spouse Jess about her first posting experience and coming to terms with being a defence spouse. Jess and I also talk about; How she went from no connection to defence to being engaged, married with two kids and on a first posting in under 4 years Being naive to the reality of what being a defence spouse would mean because of the "love bubble" effect Still trying to come to terms with the idea of being a defence family even after moving to...
2020-10-0126 minMilitary LifeBelinda Johnston on her role as DCO Patron, the juggle of being a Spouse & now the Parent of an ADF memberThis week on the podcast I talk to current Patron of the Defence Community Organisation Belinda Johnston about the ups and downs of being a spouse and her role as DCO Patron. Belinda and I also talk about; How she juggles career, family and separation alongside her husband David's role as Vice Chief of the Defence Force What being Patron of the Defence Community Organisation involves and why she looks forward to connecting with more spouses and families Acknowledging the various types of ADF families and why they should access supports and se...
2020-09-2329 minMilitary LifePTSD and the Unspoken This week on the podcast I talk to Army spouse Kelly about her Husband's PTSD and the impact it has had on their relationship. Kelly and I also talk about;
2020-09-1733 minMilitary LifeBuying a House- ADF schemes & Grants explainedSo you've decided that now is the right time to look at buying a house....yay, go you! But if you're like me, you have so many questions (so many) and a military member who isn't really down for providing ALL of the answers! Sometime's you just need it explained in plain old non-military speak which is why Defence Bank's Kym Bowles and I talk you through all of the potential grants and ADF schemes you (aka your military member) may be able to apply for when it comes to buying a...
2020-09-1016 minMilitary LifeAn Episode for the New SpousesThis week I talk to new spouse Jade about the transition from civilian couple to a Defence couple at a young age. Jade and I also talk about; What the lead up to your partner joining Defence is like What happens when they leave for recruits How to cope with feeling like "just" the girlfriend Where to find information and access support services The strength she found while her partner was away How to, as a couple, stay on the same page What happens when your partner graduates recruits Coming back together as a couple & communicating
2020-09-0350 minMilitary LifeThe Hamilton Report & its importanceToday's podcast guest is someone who has undoubtedly had an impact on all of our lives. Spouses and Defence members. Past and present. She isn't a spouse. She, at the time, had no prior connection to Defence but what she would go on to do in the Defence space, back in the 1980's, would result in so many of the services and conditions provided for all of us today. Her name is Sue Hamilton and she is the author of what would go on to be known as t...
2020-08-2739 minMilitary LifeBusiness Support & Community for Spouses This week I talk with Jasmine Cooper Sutton, Director of charity Prince's Trust Australia. Prince's Trust Australia run FREE programs that support and inspire veterans and their families to explore or continue on the entrepreneurship and self-employment path.
2020-08-1923 minMilitary LifePosting Overseas & the importance of Open Communication This week I talk with RAAF spouse Annabel about what it's like to do an overseas posting to the UK and experiencing lock down while being so far from home. We also talk about;
2020-08-1331 minMilitary LifeSupport for Defence Families with Special Needs This week on the Podcast I talk to General Manager of the Defence Special Needs Support Group Kim Collins. Kim talks about the support and programs available for defence families with a dependent or spouse with special needs and how to access that support and those programs. Kim also talks about some of the challenges defence families with special needs face and what area's DSNSG are pushing for change and improvements in. If you would like support in becoming recognised as a defenc...
2020-08-0626 minMilitary LifeA Military Couple talks Defence life & Deployment This week on the podcast I talk to Navy couple Courtney and Jay about defence life, how they nurture their relationship and Jay's recent 6 month deployment. Spouse Courtney came on the podcast a few months back on episode 47 to talk about first postings, moving and managing her chronic illness. Courtney also talked about navigating defence life knowing her husbands job will take him away a lot and her decision to move to be closer to family and friend supports while he was deployed. TRIGGER WARNING- Today's episode contains discussion of miscarriage. If anyth...
2020-07-3046 minMilitary LifeThe important role of ADF partners, current support & areas in need of improvementThis week I talk with Minister For Defence Personnel & Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester about the important role partners and families play for ADF members, veterans and the defence force overall. We also have an open and real conversation about: Why ADF members, on average, only stay in defence for 8 years Minister Chester's take on the typical 2020 defence partner & family The key issues ADF partners & families face and areas in need of improvement Access to flexible work arrangements & the culture that often prevents members from making use of it The inconsistent support and programs offered across Australia Minister Chester's pri...
2020-07-2328 minMilitary LifeA new spouse navigating military lifeThis week I talk to Brooke about finding her feet as a new spouse and navigating all that comes with being a defence family. We also talk about: Her husband's decision to join the military and why it was important it was a joint decision The pull her husband felt between his young family and training whilst they all lived on base Making use of any and all available support services as soon as possible The isolation Brooke has felt due to working from home & now COVID restrictions The importance of having a positive mindset and focusing on how military life...
2020-07-1624 minMilitary LifeAn international posting & finding your feetIn this weeks podcast episode I talk to New Zealand Navy spouse Rose about what it's like to do an international posting in Australia. We also talk about her career goals taking a backseat and the positives that have come from that and accessing support for your children and yourself when you are classed as New Zealand Navy in Australia but still have the same needs as any other Defence family. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2020-07-0228 minMilitary LifeA Spouse exploring her passionThis week I talk to Amelia about her spouse journey, defence life and following her heart to pursue her passion. After giving birth to her 3rd daughter, while on an overseas posting in Canada, Amelia decided she wanted to write children's books. Fast forward to now and Amelia is an author with two books on shelves and another 4 on the way! Amelia talks about how spouses can do anything they put their mind to (with a little help from helpful you tube tutorials) and the importance of setting aside time to pursue your passion. Ready to join the MWL community? C...
2020-06-2524 minMilitary LifePartner Employment. It's complicated!Partner employment, if it was a relationship on socials it would be listed as "its complicated." It's an area that almost all ADF partners will face challenges in at one point or another whether it be because of relocation, unconscious employer bias, the extra responsibilities we take on that may restrict us and our capacity and the list goes on. The last ADF families survey showed 14% of partners are unemployed (double the unemployment average), 12% are underemployed and 81% say they have made employment sacrifices because of their partner's ADF career and those st...
2020-06-1830 minMilitary LifeA PTSD diagnosis, Discharge & Moving homeThis week on the Podcast Part 2 of Sarah's story. In Part 1 Sarah talked about how her last minute decision to join her Husband in a regional location ended up resulting in a diagnosis for her son and uncovering his “mysterious” medical condition. Sarah walked us through the process of becoming recognised as a family with special needs and what happens when they post. We also talked about Sarah’s determination to continue her teaching career in various locations across the country despite the many curve balls her family have been thrown. This week Sarah will talk u...
2020-06-1145 minMilitary LifeA Defence family with special needs & a Spouse who sees the silver lining in every situationThis week on the Podcast I talk to spouse Sarah about how her last minute decision to join her Husband in a regional location ended up resulting in a diagnosis for her son and uncovering his "mysterious" medical condition. Sarah walks us through the process of becoming recognised as a family with special needs and what happens when you post. We also talk about Sarah's determination to continue her teaching career in various locations across the country despite the many curve balls her family have been thrown. Next week, Part 2 of this episode- Sarah w...
2020-06-0439 minMilitary LifeDomestic Violence & Military LifeIn this weeks episode, as part of Domestic Violence Prevention month, I talk to Domestic Violence Case Manager and Military spouse Jess about the cycle of violence DV victims experience and how military life sometimes adds to the isolation they go through. We also talk about how a spouse can safely leave a DV relationship, what supports they can access and why DV victims can't "just leave" an abusive relationship. I also talk with former spouse Sarah who has recently left a 15 year abusive relationship. Sarah walks us through her DV experience. She talks about th...
2020-05-281h 01Military LifeCelebrating 50 episodes of Military spouses being seen and HEARD!Welcome to something a little different! Today's episode is made up of some of the best moments from past episodes in celebration of the podcasts 50th episode. This week we also hit 20k downloads and this month marks ONE year since the MWL podcast started. So, so, so much to celebrate but what those milestones actually mean is that for one year the MWL community has been supporting me and has been supporting you. That we have all listened to 50 episodes of spouses telling their stories and allowing them to be seen and heard. That for over...
2020-05-2141 minMilitary LifeCareer red tape, chronic illness & finding a support networkThis week on the Podcast I talk to spouse Clare about the red tape and cost that comes with posting to different states when you're a Lawyer. Clare also talks about how she manages a chronic illness and the importance of having a support network and interests outside of defence and her career. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2020-05-1423 minMilitary Life30 years of Military life & Leaving your kids behindThis week on the Podcast I talk to Lisa about what it's like to be a spouse with 30 years of Military life under your belt. Lisa talks about how she is navigating having to post away from her adult children, the transition back to spending time with her Husband and being a couple again and how she found it going back to work without a defined career path and now that she is older. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2020-05-0720 minMilitary LifeMWDU, Chronic illness & Making plans This week on the Podcast I talk to spouse Courtney about first postings, moving and managing chronic illness. We also talk about how she navigates knowing her Military member will be at sea a lot and her decision to move to be closer to family and friend supports while her Husband is deployed. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2020-04-3034 minMilitary LifeGetting past a bad deployment experienceThis week on the Podcast I talk to spouse Suze about how she moved past a bad first deployment and decided to learn the skills and coping mechanism needed to not just survive but thrive future separations and deployments. Suze talks about how some bad advice from others to not tell her partner that she wasn't OK, affected her mental health. We also talk about finding employment, accessing Open Arms and everything inbetween. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2020-04-2329 minMilitary LifeCurrent Info & Support for ADF families during COVID19This week's podcast episode is the third in a series dedicated to bringing you current information relevant to you, as a spouse and as part of an ADF family, during COVID19. This week I talk to Military spouse and Nutritionist Katherine Ramsden about all things nutrition, food and our health. How can we best navigate this time while making sure we're still looking after ourselves despite limited resources and food stocks. To find out more info about Katherine follow this link https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-ramsden-a26b557b/ I also talk to Defence Community Organisation Area Manager Rachel Baker about t...
2020-04-1647 minMilitary LifeCurrent Info & Support for ADF families during COVID19This week's podcast episode is the second in a series dedicated to bringing you current information relevant to you, as a spouse and as part of an ADF family, during COVID19. This week I talk to Vonnie Balmer, Coordinator of the Gallipoli Barracks Community Centre about what they're doing now that spouses can't actually physically make use of their community centre. We talk about how they, like all centres across the country, have had to adapt the support and services they offer and how some positives can be taken from this uncertain time. I also talk to Dr Steph Hodson, Nat...
2020-04-0948 minMilitary LifeCurrent Info & Support for ADF families during COVID19This weeks podcast episode is the first in a series dedicated to bringing you current information relevant to you, as a spouse and as part of an ADF family, during COVID19. Support, info and services are changing and adapting to try and meet our needs which is why I thought it was important to bring you as much updated and useful information as I could at this time. This week I talk to National Convenor Maree Sirois, from Defence Families Australia, about how DFA are advocating for families during this time. To watch the First Five years webinar series, mentioned in t...
2020-04-0233 minMilitary LifeAn expert talks us through thriving as a SpouseThis week on the Podcast I talk to Clinical Psychologist Dr Jodie Lowinger about how we can thrive as Military spouses. Whether we are just entering the role of a spouse or have been doing it for years and years, Jodie talks about how being kind to ourselves, understanding that our best is good enough and focusing on the certainty within the uncertainty can help us cope with the ups and downs of spouse life. We also talk about getting on the same page as the military member, helping them understand the challenges, we as spouses, face and working...
2020-03-2628 minMilitary LifeGus the service dog saved my Husband and our FamilyThis week on the Podcast I talk to Army spouse Bec about a service dog called Gus and how he saved her husband, her marriage and her family. Gus was matched to her Husband through the Defence Community Dog Program, a program that is funded by the Defence Bank Foundation. The DCD program provides highly trained service dogs to serving and ex-serving ADF members who need support to deal with injuries and illnesses including Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Every dog in the program is rescued from a pound or shelter and trained at the Bathurst Correctional Centre with the...
2020-03-2032 minMilitary LifeFirst posting, making friends & a plan to transition out of DefenceThis week on the Podcast I talk to spouse Hannah about her first posting, the isolation you can feel even though you might be living in a City, accessing couples counselling through Open Arms and the plan for her Husband to possibly transition out of Defence. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2020-03-1213 minMilitary LifeA Navy partner with a passion for supporting spouses.This week on the Podcast I talk to Claire, a Navy partner who is using her personal and business experience to make a difference for all of us. Claire has a passion for supporting woman achieve their goals through coworking spaces (her coworking program is currently underway in Canberra). Think a space and place you can go to and work alongside other's with onsite childcare. For many of us spouses who have recently posted, work or study from home and are without childcare or even just those of us who want to be able to interact with other adults...
2020-03-0532 minMilitary LifeArmy Spouse life & a cancer diagnosis while on deploymentThis week on the Podcast I talk to Army spouse Bec about what it's like to post in and out of the same few locations while juggling mum and work life, separation and deployments. Bec also talks about the day she was told her Husband, who was just a few weeks into a deployment overseas, had been diagnosed with Cancer and the years that followed that diagnosis. But the one constant Bec talks about is that the Military community went above and beyond rallying around her and her family and that she will forever be grateful for the love...
2020-02-2738 minMilitary LifeDefence Community Organisation-Who they are and What they provideThis week on the Podcast I talk to Shayne Vining, Deputy Director of National Operations at the Defence Community Organisation to get the low down on what DCO do and when and why we should access information and support from them. We touch on the broad range of programs and services focusing on the 24 hour Defence Family Hotline, the SMART programs, PEAP (Partner employment assistance program) and the Welcome Days, Coffee meetups and Walk and Talk mornings. To find out more information about DCO and what they offer visit www.defence.gov.au/dco or to make...
2020-02-2031 minMilitary LifeLetting go of resentment and a bad first deployment experienceThis week on the Podcast I talk to spouse Anastasia about how she brushed off a bad first deployment. Anastasia talks about how she started to resent her military person and felt she didn't cope with the 6 month separation very well. She became depressed and really felt like she was in a holding pattern while her partner was away. But Anastasia was determined to go into a second 6 month deployment prepared and with a positive mindset and she says it made all the difference. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.co...
2020-02-1335 minMilitary LifeSpouse life & moving your business across the countryThis week on the Podcast I talk to Jess about the pros and cons of working for yourself when you're a Military spouse. Setting up your own business is often an appealing option to a lot of us due to the nature of the Defence lifestyle and needing to be able to take your work with you from state to state. Jess lets us in on just what goes into moving your family and your business across country. To learn more about Jess's business look her up on Instagram @jaylee_photography or visit her website www.jaylee-photography.com.au Ready to j...
2020-02-0527 minMilitary LifeConnecting with what WE really want out of life!This week on the Podcast I talk to Kat John, speaker, coach and someone who's mission is to help us master our minds so our souls can come back to life! This episode is about us focusing on sparking that connection with what WE really want out of life. We talk about how we can follow through with the vision for our life despite the brick walls we come up against and the lack of control we might feel we have because of the Military lifestyle. We also talk about what it means to shift the plan to align with M...
2020-01-2940 minMilitary LifeSubmariner Spouse life & what happens when your child has a medical emergency This week on the Podcast I talk to Shari about what it's like to be the spouse of a Submariner. We talk no communication for months on end, the tight knit community that Shari calls the Navy within the Navy and how that community and Defence rallied around their family when their 16 year old son was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2020-01-2234 minMilitary LifeA young Military spouse trying to find where she fits while focusing on her goals This week on the Podcast I talk to Madeline about juggling being an Army spouse alongside being a young Uni student who lives at home with her parents. Madeline and her boyfriend live in the same town and have been together for over 4 years. They have been through separations and a deployment but she says she still feels like she hasn't found her spouse tribe yet and doesn't really fit into a box when it comes to support. Madeline also talks about the worry she feels about finishing her double degree and posting with her partner (for the first time...
2020-01-1539 minMilitary LifeProcessing the devastating bush fires and how to support our Military members sent to helpThe Military Wife Life Podcast returns for 2020 with Clinical Psychologist Dr Jodie Lowinger who is talking us through coping with traumatic events and natural disasters, like the Australian bush fires. We talk about how significant unfolding events like these can have an impact on our mental health and well being, even if we haven't been directly affected but have just watched on, or our military member has been recalled and deployed to those affected areas or maybe we have a family member who is a volunteer firefighter or first responder. This episode is for anyone who is feeling the...
2020-01-0835 minMilitary LifeWhen living apart from your Military person works for your familyThis week on the Podcast I talk to Navy spouse Sal about how living apart from her Husband (MWDU) for, so far, 8 years and two kids has become the norm for their family and actually really suits them. Sal talks about how staying in location was important for her in order to pursue her own career goals, stay close to family support and is all about their families long term goals. It hasn't all been smooth sailing but Sal and her Husband are committed to making it work for as long as it works and reassessing the situation if and...
2019-12-1823 minMilitary LifePosting away from a seriously ill parent & the emotional roller coaster that comes with that.This week on the Podcast I talk to Army spouse Steph about making the hard and emotional decision to move away from her seriously sick Mum in New South Wales and join her Fiance on his first posting all the way over in the Northern Territory. Steph talks about finding her spouse tribe in her new location and the support they have shown her despite not knowing each other very long. Steph also talks about an issue that isn't often highlighted and that is the struggle to get back to visit family, especially her sick Mum, when you have only...
2019-12-1136 minMilitary LifePart 2- Saying YES to LESS to make space for what is really importantOn Part 2 of Episode 31 of the podcast, Air Force spouse and Declutter expert and Life Coach Tara Tuttle and I talk about the just in case items we carry around that hold us down. When excess and clutter prevent us from living the way we want to live. Setting aside time to declutter and organise and starting small in order to avoid overwhelm. Taking time to find or create homes for our belongings when we post into a new location and how that can allow us mentally to feel more settled. How deciding to let go of stuff is just...
2019-12-0426 minMilitary LifePart One- Mental and Physical clutter and Military LifeThis week on the Podcast (Part 1) I talk to Air Force spouse Tara Tuttle about decluttering and letting go! Tara is a Declutter expert and Life Coach and know's the challenges living the military lifestyle can bring concerning organisation, clutter, holding onto things, feeling overwhelmed and how physical and mental clutter are often connected. We talk about the two types of people when it comes to decluttering. How Military life can allow us to not think critically about our belongings and how saying yes to less physical possessions or mental clutter allows us to make space for what is really...
2019-12-0430 minMilitary LifeFinding your Military spouse tribe & following your careerThis week on the Podcast I talk to Air Force spouse Sonja about how moving to a place she never wanted to go ended up being her favourite posting. Sonja found her Military spouse tribe and embraced spouse life and there was no turning back. Fast forward to today and Sonja has done something that isn't seen as the norm, she has moved for her career leaving her husband and son behind. It wasn't an easy choice but after years of sacrifice and compromise it was finally the right time for Sonja to follow her career not only for her...
2019-11-2741 minMilitary LifeFinding meaningful employment, a long IVF journey and what happens to a frozen embryo when you post out?This week on the Podcast I talk to Army spouse Leah about moving and finding meaningful employment, her and her Husband's long IVF journey, what will happen with their one and only frozen embryo when they post out and the importance of accessing Open Arms to stay on top of your mental health. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-11-2036 minMilitary LifeDefence School Mentors- the lowdown on how they help Defence families..This week on the Podcast I talk to Jenny about the importance of Defence School Mentors (DSM) and their role within our schools across the country. If you haven't heard about DSM's, they provide a range of services and resources that can assist with the transition between schools and education systems, and are also there to provide support for the unique day to day needs of Defence students. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-11-1312 minMilitary LifeAn unexpected deployment, learning to live with each other again and finding a way forward togetherThis week I talk to Air Force spouse Stella about coming to terms with an unexpected deployment, what happened when her Husband came back and the long road to getting to know each other again. Stella also talks about how a mountain biking accident just weeks after her Husbands return turned into nearly a year off work and the impact that had on her and their marriage. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-11-0641 minMilitary LifeThe transition from Military Member to Spouse, finding employment and your feet in the civilian world.This week I talk to former Air Force Officer and now Army spouse Laura about her transition from Military Member to Spouse and finding her feet in the civilian world. Laura talks about the road to finding employment, long distance dating after only a few weeks of being official, finally moving to be with her partner and supporting him while coming to terms with the end of her military career. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-10-3024 minMilitary LifeA Navy partner researching her way to a better picture of the modern Military SpouseThis week I talk to Navy spouse and University Lecturer Amy Johnson about what she found when she undertook her recent research into the ADF, Military families and our use of social media. Amy's research led her to come up with the notion of a 'perfect partner'- the expectation that a military spouse is someone who is happily keeping the family fires burning, looking after 2.5 kids, not working and following the military member from post to post. While that may be the case at certain points in our spouse experience, in 2019 it isn't always the typical experience and a majority of s...
2019-10-2329 minMilitary LifeWhat happens when the deployed member's parent has a terminal illness?This week I talk to Navy spouse Sera about coping with her husband being posted to a ship, going MWDU and deploying all while she juggled running a business, teenage kids and supporting her in laws during her Father in laws terminal illness. We talk about how Sera kept her Husband across his Dad's condition during times of no contact and what happened when her Husband had to be pulled off the ship to make the harrowing journey home to say goodbye.
2019-10-1533 min
Be UnclutteredMilitary Wife Life with Beck RaynerBeck Rayner is a military wife who has undergone a transformation through physical and emotional decluttering. This week she shares her story with Tara, talking about how her views about what was holding her back in life changed over the course of her journey.
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2019-10-0840 minMilitary LifeNavigating MWDU, Kids, Work and a Side HustleThis week I talk to Army spouse Arusha about the juggle that is MWDU, kids, working and how taking on a side hustle (when she was already stretched) ended up being the best decision she could make for herself, her health and everyone around her. If you would like to find out more about the lifestyle and weight lose program Arusha is involved in you can contact via the below link or look up Modere. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1301266673 Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to g...
2019-10-0230 minMilitary LifeHow we can lead the life we want to live by getting intentional and taking responsibilityThis week I talk to US Air Force spouse and Life Coach Becca Brown about her experience as a spouse and how that led her to wanting something more. Fast forward to now and Becca is helping other spouses handle life better, finding purpose, drive and passion in our lives and facing deployments and separation with confidence. We go deep and talk about how stepping into emotional adulthood (don't worry it is explained in the episode) can help us lead the life we want to live through acknowledgement, allowing our emotions, getting intentional and taking responsibility for our thoughts an...
2019-09-2531 minMilitary LifeFrom the heartbreak of infertility to adopting 6 kidsThis week I talk to Army spouse Lisa about the heart break of infertility and how she and her husband Nathan went from thinking maybe they wouldn't ever have children to having 6! Lisa talks us through the process of becoming a Foster Carer and their long journey to adopt. You can follow Lisa's journey via her Instagram page @thegoodthebadandus Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-09-1831 minMilitary LifeA life changing workplace accident, recovery & a new "normal"This week I talk to truly inspirational Air Force spouse Kerrie about the day her husband Nathan had a freak service injury that would completely change their lives. Kerrie talks about the moment she was told Nathan would probably never walk again and the months and months of rehab that followed and continues. Kerrie is all that a military spouse HAS to be and so much more and with her support Nathan is literally kicking goals! If you would like to follow Nathan's recovery you can do that via Instagram page @afterstroke Ready to...
2019-09-1031 minMilitary LifeLong distance from the start & taking that leap of faith to be with each otherThis week I talk to Elle about what it's like to be in a long distance relationship from the very start after she and her Army partner met at an interstate wedding late last year. Elle and Andrew stayed in contact and decided to give interstate love a go. 7 months on and they are navigating separation for months on end, applying to go Defacto and Elle has made the decision to move (with her dogs, cats and horses in tow) from Victoria to be with Andrew in NSW when he posts from QLD at the end of the year. It...
2019-09-0426 minMilitary LifePosting at 38 weeks pregnant & 5 years of being an Army familyThis week I talk to Anika who recaps 5 years of being an Army family. Anika definitely takes everything in her stride, including posting across country at 38 weeks pregnant with their first baby! We also talk about how important securing work in each posting locality is for her relationship and her mental health and how Darwin went from being at the bottom of their posting list to one of their favorite experiences.
2019-08-2727 minMilitary LifeBlended families, custody and what happens when MWDU isn't workingThis week I talk to Bec who has been with her Army partner for 3 years. Both came into the relationship with children from previous partners and just a few months after being together they fell pregnant and went on to have a baby together. Bec talks about their decision to go MWDU at the start of this year, how they came to the decision that MWDU just wasn't working for them and what now needs to happen custody wise for her children and her partner's children now that she is moving to be with him. ...
2019-08-2029 minMilitary LifeDeployment from the Military Member's perspectiveThis week I talk to my Husband Scott who has, just days ago, returned from a 6 month deployment. We talk about deployment from the Military member's perspective. What happens when that ship pulls away from the wharf and sets off on its journey. How it feels for the Military member to be away from their family for long stretches and all those little questions you might have but never get the chance to ask. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-08-0728 minMilitary LifeThe first 12 months of being a Military SpouseThis week I talk to Susan who has just hit the one year mark of being a Navy spouse. Susan talks us through the huge changes she and her Husband have gone through during the past 12 months and what she expected Military life to be like versus the reality. From months and months of separation, giving birth to their second child without her Husband by her side, a few tears and a couple of hospital trips she has risen to the challenge and tackled everything that has been thrown at her like a true Military spouse does.
2019-07-3028 minMilitary LifeThe Juggle is Real! A compilation of previous podcast guests and their take on self care.This week's podcast episode is a compilation of some of the words of wisdom offered by the beautiful military spouses I have already had on the podcast. What they do to make life easier. How they juggle all they have to juggle while living this military life. What self care means to them and how they look after themselves so they can continue to look after everyone else. We are all in this together! Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-07-2322 minMilitary LifeMaking MWDU work for you, starting a new business & PEAP fundingThis week I talk to Taryn, an Air Force spouse, who embarked on what was supposed to be a one year MWDU stint that eventually turned into three years with a deployment thrown into the mix. Taryn talks about how she cope's with MWDU and two young kids, a new business that is helping other defence partners on their re-employment journey, PEAP funding and how she still finds small but important ways to make sure she is looking after herself and her mental health. PLEASE NOTE- Soon after recording this episode the PEAP funding was...
2019-07-1632 minMilitary LifeA PTSD diagnosis, marriage breakdown & a long awaited home comingFollowing on from last week's Podcast Episode I talk to Kiri about her Husband Luke's medical discharge from the Army, his decision to admit himself into hospital to get the help he needed and what happened when he told her he was walking away from their marriage. Kiri stood by her Husband for nearly two years while he got the help that he needed for his PTSD and got himself well enough to be able to participate in life again. There was no guarantee he was going to come back home but Kiri just knew that she...
2019-07-0933 minMilitary LifeDeployment, a medical emergency, medical discharge & the road to healingA re-connection via Facebook sparked a romance between Kiri and Luke and before she knew it she was moving from Adelaide to Darwin to be with her Army guy, only for him to get word that he would be deploying to Afghanistan just 6 weeks after she moved to be with him! That deployment would change Kiri's now Husband forever after two of his mate's were killed in action. He would also go onto have a medical emergency out in the field, face medical discharge and so much more. Luke put his hand up for help...
2019-07-0226 minMilitary LifeStaying strong, Making YOU a priority & GrowthThis week I'm on the podcast talking about a medical emergency involving my 4 and a half year old and how it could have been the total unraveling of me. I talk about how laying some strong foundations over the last year and a half and consistently saying YES to me allowed me to pull myself out of a spiral of self pity and get back on track straight away. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-06-2511 minMilitary LifeKate swiped right and just months later became an Army wifeThis week I talk to Kate about meeting her now Army Husband Byron online, dating for a few short months, getting engaged, moving to be with Byron and getting married. This time last year Kate was still single and now she is in the thick of Army Wife life and loving it. Ready to join the MWL Community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-06-1926 minMilitary LifeMarried with a baby within a year, splitting up & Army to Navy WifeMel met her Military guy online and after a few months they went on their first date. The next day he left town with the Army to take part in the clean-up following the Brisbane floods and Mel didn't know when she would see him again. Once he returned they knew they wanted to be together and within a year were pregnant, engaged, married and her Husband was deployed to Afghanistan. In this episode I talk to Mel about what happened when he got back from deployment, the breakdown of their marriage and how they both had...
2019-06-0427 minMilitary LifeDFA and their role in advocating for Defence FamiliesThis week I talk to Michelle, Communications Manager from advocacy organisation Defence Families of Australia. Michelle talks about the role DFA plays as the advisory body FOR US to the Minister for Defence Personnel and CDF, what that means for us and how it helps us, the difference between DFA and DCO, the major topics they are currently bringing to the fore on our behalf and how we can have our voices heard. PLEASE NOTE: Our name has changed from Navy Wife Life to Military Wife Life on socials but it will take a...
2019-05-2823 minMilitary LifeLong distance, Moving and Working from homeAshley met her Military guy while on a girls weekend in Sydney. They chatted via text/online for 6 months before even coming back together to go on their first date, dated and did long distance for another 6 months and then Ashley made the huge decision to leave her family, friends, business and life to move to be with her Navy guy. 4 years on and they are happily married, have added a fur baby to their family and are eagerly planning their long awaited honeymoon. I talk to Ashley about adjusting to military spouse life, living in the...
2019-05-1640 minMilitary LifeA scandalous start, custody arrangements & breaking pointIn Episode 6 of Military Wife- The Podcast I talk to Joanna who has been a Navy spouse for a little under 5 years and has certainly experienced the ups and downs of spouse life during that time. Joanna and her now Fiance had a little bit of a scandalous start, a brief breakup, have navigated custody arrangements and Navy life, deployments, a difficult pregnancy and so much more. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-05-0731 minMilitary LifeMaking the tough decisions and making Military life work for YOUThis weeks episode of Military Wife Life- The Podcast is all about how making a tough and scary decision in my life would ultimately lead me to really being my TRUE self and has now allowed me to shift my mindset and make Military spouse life work FOR me. Please note: The words I use at the end of this Episode are a quote from Brene Brown and her 'The Power of Vulnerability' Ted Talk. Ready to join the MWL community? Click through the link to get connected xx www.militarywifelife.com.au
2019-04-3011 minMilitary LifeA Mental Health diagnosis and being a Spouse and Navy memberIn Episode 4 of Military Wife Life- The Podcast I talk to Kasey who has had some twists and turns in her journey as not only a Navy spouse but also a Navy member. From falling pregnant unexpectedly while doing her Officer training, to being diagnosed with Post Natal depression and then Bi-polar, managing dual postings and everything in-between. Kasey has overcome some huge setbacks but continues to rise to the challenges that Spouse life and Navy life present. She is a true inspiration with her willingness to shine a light on not only living with...
2019-04-2536 minMilitary LifeLiving MWDU, Health scares & Afghanistan"Make sure you are open and honest with yourself and to other people. Tell your partner how you are feeling about them going. Ask them how they are feeling about it too. It does work both ways." "Make sure you have got that support network in place. Because as much as 6 months goes fast, it doesn't aswell." In Episode 3 of Military Wife Life- The Podcast I talk to Katrina, a family focussed, coffee catchup lover and book worm who admits she hardly gets time to read! Well duh her Husband is d...
2019-04-1742 minMilitary LifeNavy Life, Separation, Trying for a Baby and Fertility"Mother Nature is going to decide this and not the Navy. I was getting frustrated with how his job was indirectly dictating our family planning but it all worked out." "It was definitely a challenge to get him back to do the surgery to retrieve my eggs." In Episode 2 of Military Wife Life- The Podcast, I talk to Teagan, a Marketing Manager, self confessed fitness addict who loves animals and describes herself as a wine enthusiast, feminist and an IVF and fertility advocate. Canadian born Teagan has experienced a lot in h...
2019-04-0836 minMilitary LifeI Will Feel Empowered If I Can Get Through This"After the first deployment, I was left believing I couldn't do it ever again. I really believed I couldn't survive another one. By the time this second deployment came up, I haven't wanted to do it but a part of me was like you know what, If I can get through this one and prove to myself I can do it, then I will have built some resilience and that's all I want. I will feel empowered from that." In Episode 1 of Military Wife Life- The Podcast, I talk to trained a...
2019-04-0849 minMilitary LifeWelcome to the Navy Wife Life PodcastWelcome to the Military Wife Life Podcast- a podcast telling the stories of everyday Military wives and partners. Listen in to hear from others who are living this military life, juggling all the things on the daily, just like you and I. Let's connect and support each other by telling our stories, celebrating our strength, focusing on self care & lifting each other up. PLEASE NOTE: This Podcast was previously called Navy Wife Life
2018-12-1209 min