4 days ago

Episode 270 Veteran Stories and Changing the Ending

This week, I sit down with Rhonda Lauritzen and Rachel Trotter of Evalogue.life, an organization dedicated to helping people—especially veterans—preserve their life stories. Rhonda, a military spouse herself, joins Rachel to share how they interview veterans, carefully document their experiences, and even write full biographies so those important memories and lessons are never lost. We also talk about their upcoming book, Changing the Ending, set to release on December 15, 2026. Together we explore why storytelling matters, the unique value of capturing a service member’s journey in their own words, and how their work helps families and future generations stay connected to that legacy. If you care about military stories, family history, or the power of being heard, this conversation offers a warm and meaningful look at preserving the voices that matter most. Rhonda Lauritzen is a professional biographer, conference speaker (including at RootsTech), and founder of Evalogue.Life. She holds degrees from Weber State University and an MBA from the University of Utah, previously served as a family-business CEO and college vice president, and has authored books such as A Child in Berlin and Creative Insecurity. Rachel J. Trotter is a professional writer and former newspaper reporter with a passion for capturing life stories and triumphs over tragedy. A Weber State graduate and frequent family-history conference speaker, she has written a dozen life-story books, contributes to various publications, and also works as a public-relations consultant while raising a large family in Ogden, Utah. Their free oral history tool kit: https://evalogue.life/oral-history1/ The link about their book: https://evalogue.life/changing-the-ending/ The article mentioned about journaling: https://evalogue.life/journal-writing/ Here is a link about the Library of Congress's veteran history project: https://evalogue.life/tools-and-resources-overview/oral-history-interview-questions-and-resources/veteran-history-project/ This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

2 Sept

Episode 269 Hidden Costs of a Move with Sarah Roder from Armed Forces Mutual

Military moves come with more than just packing boxes and changing addresses. In this practical episode, I sit down with military spouse Sarah Roeder from Armed Forces Mutual to unpack the hidden costs of a PCS that often catch families off guard—things like restocking your pantry, reenrolling kids in activities and programs, temporary housing expenses, and other everyday costs that add up fast. Sarah shares realistic strategies for budgeting and setting money aside so your next move feels less stressful and more manageable. Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming PCS or simply want better financial awareness as a military family, this conversation offers clear, useful insights to help you plan ahead and protect your peace of mind. This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

26 Aug

Episode 268 Shipping Vehicles Overseas and Passport Problems

In this practical and relatable military spouse panel, I sit down with Kacie and Erika to break down the real-world details of international moves — especially the often-overlooked logistics of shipping a vehicle from Europe to the US, navigating visas, passports, and the many moving parts that come with an overseas PCS. We share firsthand experiences, common pitfalls, and helpful tips we’ve learned the hard way so you can feel more prepared for your own international transition. Whether you’re currently planning a move abroad, shipping a car back home, or simply want to understand the process better, this conversation is packed with honest insights and useful advice from spouses who have been through it. This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

19 Aug

Episode 267 Braav CEO Anna Redmond on Hiring Veterans

After a short hiatus and completing our latest military move, I’m back with an inspiring conversation featuring Anna Redmond, CEO of Braav and founder of Allcoin. Anna shares how employing veterans at her security company has not only strengthened her business but also deepened her appreciation for their skills, discipline, and stories. That inspiration led her to create a digital platform dedicated to preserving the personal memories and history behind the challenge coins service members collect. In this episode we talk about the real value veterans bring to the workplace, the power of storytelling through challenge coins, and practical ways companies can better support those who have served. Whether you’re a military spouse, veteran, entrepreneur, or simply curious about meaningful ways to honor service, this conversation offers genuine insight and motivation. This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

17 Jun

Episode 266 Summer Surprises

Join me for a personal catch-up episode filled with adventure, real talk, and military life realities. After saving for years, I finally took the dream trip to Italy to explore my family roots — and I’m sharing all the highlights, heartfelt moments, and fun stories from reconnecting with my Italian heritage. I also open up about the latest curveballs Army life has thrown our way, upcoming changes, and how they’re reshaping the podcast schedule. The mission and motivation haven’t changed — we’re just adjusting expectations to fit military reality. If you’re a military spouse, love travel stories, or want an honest look at balancing big dreams with service life, this episode is packed with inspiration and laughs you won’t want to miss. This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

10 Jun

Episode 265 Culture Ready with Former Diplomat Alan Powell

Ever wondered what “culture” really means and why it matters? In this fun and insightful episode, I chat with Alan Powell, a 20+ year State Department diplomat who served in seven countries. Alan shares engaging stories from his career — including working with the U.S. military in Japan — and breaks down military culture versus local cultures in eye-opening ways. Now through his new venture Culture Ready, he helps people successfully adapt to new environments. Whether you’re military, a spouse facing moves, or just love learning about different cultures, this conversation delivers laughs, great stories, and practical wisdom on building real connections across the world. https://www.culture-ready.com/about/ https://www.instagram.com/culture_ready/ https://www.facebook.com/CultureReadyNow/ This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

3 Jun

Episode 264 Heroes and Horses

Discover the healing power of nature, horses, and community in this heartfelt episode with Mackenzie Fink, co-founder and Wellness Director of Heroes and Horses. This Montana nonprofit helps combat veterans rebuild through a transformative 41-day wilderness rite of passage that combines horsemanship, rugged backcountry challenges, nutrition, mindfulness, and real connection. What started as veteran support has grown into a powerful family and team program, proving the profound impact of the outdoors and community on rediscovering purpose and strength after military service. Packed with raw stories and uplifting insights on resilience and renewal, this episode delivers inspiration for veterans, military families, first responders, and anyone interested in learning more about this inspiring program. heroesandhorses.org This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

27 May

Episode 263 Delivering Hope in WWII Remembering the 6888

In this special Memorial Day episode, we honor the remarkable women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—the only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas during World War II. Becky and I sit down with a key contributor to the team behind a growing digital database dedicated to preserving the legacy of these trailblazing women. Together, we explore the powerful process of uncovering lost records, piecing together personal histories, and building an accessible resource so future generations can learn their stories. Whether you come from a military background or simply value powerful untold stories, this episode offers a meaningful look at courage, resilience, and legacy. Website with roster: https://sites.google.com/view/honoringthe6888/home?authuser=0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honoringthe6888th?igsh=MTQ5MGtzOWE5aTdjOA== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EM5YgjD6P/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@honoringthe6888th?feature=shared This podcast exists to honor service and preserve history. If you’d like to support that work with a small, voluntary contribution, you can find us on Ko-fi. https://ko-fi.com/samwoolf Podcast Links Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7aFdm7HxNbXqpJkVPiWmsO iHeartRadio https://iheart.com/podcast/80684075 Audible https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65c12395-9840-441a-8093-27bd74c289cf X (Twitter) https://x.com/SamWoolf247 YouTube https://youtube.com/@samwoolflifeofamilitarywife?si=cYUiXtr3gzs9r4mw Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-of-a-military-wife/id1808308811 Facebook https://facebook.com/Sam.Woolf247 lifeofamilitarywifepodcast@gmail.com

Life of a Military Wife

Episode 270 Veteran Stories and Changing the Ending

Episode 269 Hidden Costs of a Move with Sarah Roder from Armed Forces Mutual

Episode 268 Shipping Vehicles Overseas and Passport Problems

Episode 267 Braav CEO Anna Redmond on Hiring Veterans

Episode 266 Summer Surprises

Episode 265 Culture Ready with Former Diplomat Alan Powell

Episode 264 Heroes and Horses

Episode 263 Delivering Hope in WWII Remembering the 6888

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Life of a Military Wife

Episodes

Episode 270 Veteran Stories and Changing the Ending

Episode 269 Hidden Costs of a Move with Sarah Roder from Armed Forces Mutual

Episode 268 Shipping Vehicles Overseas and Passport Problems

Episode 267 Braav CEO Anna Redmond on Hiring Veterans

Episode 266 Summer Surprises

Episode 265 Culture Ready with Former Diplomat Alan Powell

Episode 264 Heroes and Horses

Episode 263 Delivering Hope in WWII Remembering the 6888

About

Information