Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth

Jen Amos
  • 5.0 (21)
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For seasoned spouses exploring new opportunities and ideas outside the military, so that they can make more confident choices for their next chapter. www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

  1. JAN 22

    230: Encouraging Seasoned Spouses to "Be on the Call" for the SBP Decision with Jen Amos

    Special thanks to Robyn J. Grable, host of the ASCENDing Beyond Barriers podcast, for the opportunity to re-share Jen’s interview on our show! Robyn’s podcast represents her 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, The ASCEND Collective (TAC), which is dedicated to creating career pathways for veterans, military spouses, and underserved talent through a skills-first approach. At the ASCEND Collective, they believe talent is defined by potential — and that everyone deserves opportunities that value them as a person, recognize their skills, and provide a path to success. Learn more at https://theascendcollective.org/ It’s been a minute since Jen has had the fortune of being interviewed on someone else’s show! Together, Robyn and Jen discuss the following: * How everything changed when Jen became a Gold Star daughter at 10 years old * How Susan Cain’s book Bittersweet helped Jen channel loss and grief into her work and artistry * How Jen’s family worked with The Price of Freedom Foundation to publish a book about her late father * How it’s like working with her husband at US VetWealth * How retirees find US VetWealth when they are exploring an alternative to the Survivor Benefit Plan * A different perspective for military spouses to make a confident and informed decision on the Survivor Benefit Plan * How Jen’s curiosity about military spouses and the SBP decision led to starting Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth podcast * Jen’s reasoning behind releasing her upcoming book a couple of chapters at a time Jen’s interview is also available on YouTube, thanks to the ASCENDing Beyond Barriers podcast! Also available on Spotify! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    31 min

  2. JAN 15

    229: Supporting Special Operation Forces (SOF) Spouses During Military Transition with Teresa Shick — Part 2 of 2

    First time here? Welcome! Please listen to the previous episode 228: Supporting Special Operation Forces (SOF) Spouses During Military Transition with Teresa Shick — Part 1 of 2 Some quick announcements before diving back into our interview: * Thank you to everyone who attended US VetWealth’s first Post-Military Career Strategy Circle yesterday on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET)! * More Chapter Releases of Jen’s upcoming book — You’ll get emailed directly if you’ve already subscribed. Otherwise, subscribe now to get your free copy! * And just for subscribing, you’ll also receive: * Podcasting mentorship info for seasoned spouses * Free discovery call with Keyani from Ep. 225 and Ep 226. * Bonus freebies from future guest collaborations * And a free subscription upgrade to become an “Insider” — gain access to Inside the Fort Private Podcast, where Keyani’s Part 3 interview is available! Already subscribed? Scroll to the bottom of our latest newsletter to become an Insider now! We’re excited to continue our conversation with Teresa Shick from the SOF Pillar Foundation to discuss the following: * When Teresa realized that she could explore options outside of the 30-minute radius of her husband’s duty station, and the time it took before their family felt like civilians. * What you can expect at the Pillar Foundation retreats, including scholarships for SOF Spouses returning to school. * Teresa and her family’s ever-evolving journey, even in post-military life. * Pre-retreat surveys SOF Spouses take so that they have a tailored retreat experience. * Teresa’s preference to say “It’s our time as a family” rather than a spouse saying, “It’s my time on retirement.” * Reactions when a spouse is asked, “What do you want?” * Who Teresa is outside of being a military spouse and the Founder of The Pillar Foundation, and what she proclaimed to her family once her husband retired. * The number one thing divorced spouses say they needed in hindsight. * How Teresa is managing life at a relatively slower pace as a civilian. Learn how your donations go toward directly supporting our SOF Spouses at https://www.sofpillarfoundation.org/donate Check out Teresa’s previous episodes 94 & 228: First-time listener? Get up to speed by checking out episode 227 for a recap of the last season! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    35 min
  3. 228: Supporting Special Operation Forces (SOF) Spouses During Military Transition with Teresa Shick — Part 1 of 2

    JAN 8

    228: Supporting Special Operation Forces (SOF) Spouses During Military Transition with Teresa Shick — Part 1 of 2

    Happy New Year! We hope you all had a wonderful holiday season! Some quick announcements before introducing our guest: * US VetWealth’s Post-Military Career Strategy Circle takes place on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET) — RSVP Now by clicking HERE. * More Chapter Releases of Jen’s upcoming book — You’ll get emailed directly if you’ve already subscribed. Otherwise, subscribe now to get your free copy! * And just for subscribing, you’ll also receive: * Podcasting mentorship info for seasoned spouses * Free discovery call with Keyani from Ep. 225 and Ep 226. * Bonus freebies from future guest collaborations * And a free subscription upgrade to become an “Insider” — gain access to Inside the Fort Private Podcast, where Keyani’s Part 3 interview is available! We’re excited to welcome back Teresa Shick from the SOF Pillar Foundation to discuss the following: * How The Pillar Foundation began as an idea in 2017, when her husband was retiring from the Navy SEALs after 24 years. * When she gained non-profit status in 2020 for her in-person (keyword: in-person) retreat. * When she was finally able to execute her mission statement in 2021, she has been steadfast since. * How The Pillar Foundation supports special operation forces (SOF) spouses, two years before through two years after their husband’s transition. * When she and her husband went through military transition together, including how they navigated the Survivor Benefit Plan decision. * And more to come in part 2! Stay tuned next Thursday! Learn more about The Pillar Foundation: https://www.sofpillarfoundation.org/ For more info on TRICARE for former spouses and The 20/20/20 Rule (referencing timestamp 34:10): https://www.military.com/paycheck-chronicles/2015/09/14/understanding-the-202020-rule Check out Teresa’s previous episode no. 94: Start the year right by networking with us at US VetWealth’s Post-Military Career Strategy Circle on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET) A professional roundtable for senior military leaders, recent retirees, and veteran leaders who want a more straightforward path forward — and a stronger network to walk it with. This session brings together peers who understand the reality of transitioning from command-level leadership into corporate roles, consulting, entrepreneurship, or federal service. It’s a space to exchange perspectives, compare notes on the job market, and build relationships with people navigating similar challenges. Check out episode 227 for a recap of last season! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    37 min

  4. 12/18/2025

    227: Free podcasting mentorship with Jen — and Happy Holidays!

    To wrap up our fall season, Jen recaps the following: * Why she returned to podcasting after her one-year break * Updates on more chapter releases for her upcoming book: The Military Spouse Benefit Plan * Shoutouts to this season’s guests: * Ep. 220 — Stephanie Brown and her SBP Testimonial * Ep. 222 & 223 — Kris & Larry with PatriotCare * Ep. 225 & 226 — Keyani with Mrs. P Framework (plus bonus episode) * Free mentorship for seasoned spouses seeking accountability to start a podcast for 2026. To learn more: click here. * How to become a guest on HDTF: click here. The show will resume on Thursday, January 8th! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 🎄🎉 P.S. Join us for US VetWealth’s Post-Military Career Strategy Circle on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET) A professional roundtable for senior military leaders, recent retirees, and veteran leaders who want a more straightforward path forward — and a stronger network to walk it with. This session brings together peers who understand the reality of transitioning from command-level leadership into corporate roles, consulting, entrepreneurship, or federal service. It’s a space to exchange perspectives, compare notes on the job market, and build relationships with people navigating similar challenges. Or RSVP now by clicking HERE. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    11 min

  5. 12/11/2025

    226: MRSP Framework - How to go from "What am I doing?" to "Oh, I got this!" with Keyani Washington - Part 2 of 3

    First time listener? Please listen to the previous episode 225 for part one of Keyani’s interview! We’re excited to welcome Keyani Washington back to the show to catch up on the following for Part 2 of 3 of her interview: * A continuation of how ChatGPT can clarify original thoughts and suggest content ideas. * A final emphasis on Mindset as the first step in the MRSP Framework * The next two steps in Keyani’s framework: Responsibility and Standard * Clarification on setting an “inner standard” * Keyani’s “You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal” * And more to come! Part 3 of 3 is now available exclusively to our podcast subscribers! In the final part of our conversation: * We stress the significance of following Keyani’s MRSP Framework in the order mentioned * How the MRSP Framework applies to your professional and personal life * Simple steps to get started with Keyani’s “You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal.” How can I listen to Part 3? * Subscribe to INSIDETHEFORT.COM. * In your welcome email, you’ll see instructions on how to upgrade your subscription for free. * Note: Please save holdingdownthefort@substack.com as a trusted contact. If you don’t receive a welcome email, please check your SPAM folder. Issues? Contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com * Listen to Part 3 on our private podcast: Inside the Fort by US VetWealth. Check out Keyani’s previous episodes: Ep. 153, Ep. 213, & 225 — First time here? Subscribe to INSIDETHEFORT.COM to receive your FREE upgrade to listen to Part 3 of Keyani’s interview! Resources Mentioned * The Rosie Network — https://www.therosienetwork.org/ * You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal — https://keyanisiobhan.com/you-set-the-meaning-7-day-journal This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    26 min

  6. 12/04/2025

    225: MRSP Framework - How to go from "What am I doing?" to "Oh, I got this!" with Keyani Washington - Part 1 of 3

    We’re excited to welcome Keyani Washington back to the show to catch up on the following: * Keyani’s latest involvement with The Rosie Network * Keyani’s MRSP Framework (a.k.a. “Mrs. P”) for leveling up in your personal or professional life, starting with “Mindset” and how it leads to “Responsibility.” * How ChatGPT helped clarify Keyani’s “original thought” and condensed the brainstorming process to create her framework. This is Part 1 of 3 of Keyani’s interview! Here’s what to look forward to in Part 2: * A continuation of how ChatGPT can clarify original thoughts and suggest content ideas. * A final emphasis on Mindset as the first step in the MRSP Framework * The next two steps in Keyani’s framework: Responsibility and Standard * Clarification on setting an “inner standard” * Keyani’s “You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal” * And more to come! Subscribe to the podcast to be the first to hear about Keyani’s upcoming giveaway — plus additional freebies just for subscribing! Check out Keyani’s previous episodes: Ep. 153 & Ep. 213 — Resources Mentioned * The Rosie Network — https://www.therosienetwork.org/ * You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal — https://keyanisiobhan.com/you-set-the-meaning-7-day-journal This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    27 min

  7. 11/27/2025

    224: Exploring New Ideas and Opportunities Outside of the Military

    Happy end of Military Family Appreciation Month and Happy Thanksgiving! Jen shares a mix of updates, including: * The updated objective for the show and the value of seeking a second opinion for military retirement, especially regarding military benefits such as SBP, TSP, and VGLI. * An update on Jen’s upcoming book, The Military Spouse Benefit Plan. * How small businesses and entrepreneurs can support military families by hiring military spouse virtual assistants who provide tailored administrative solutions. * And what’s next for the show! Resources Mentioned * Military Family Appreciation Month — https://www.military.com/military-family-appreciation-month * An alternative way to protect your pension — https://usvetwealth.com/military-retirement-income-toolkit-help-center/ * Freedom Makers — https://www.freedom-makers.com/ Happy Military Family Appreciation Month & Happy Thanksgiving, we are thankful for our military and for everyone who supports them! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    24 min

  8. 11/20/2025

    223: PatriotCare — An Alternative to TRICARE and Traditional Health Insurance with Kris & Larry — Part 2 of 2

    First-Time Listener? Be sure to listen to Part One of this interview by clicking HERE. At US VetWealth, we often talk about exploring alternative solutions to the Survivor Benefit Plan. Today, we’re taking that same mindset and applying it to healthcare. Meet Kris and Larry, the partners behind PatriotCare — an organization offering an alternative to TRICARE and traditional health insurance. While PatriotCare’s website highlights “Healthcare Benefits for Small Businesses & Independent Contractors,” this conversation reveals so much more: the heart and mission behind their work for the military community. In this second and final part of our interview, you’ll hear: * More real-life scenarios on how available, affordable, and accessible PatriotCare is * The term “medical cost sharing company” and how it’s different from a traditional health insurance company * What Kris’ late father impressed upon him, working in life insurance for 65 years * …and more! If you’re ready to explore new opportunities and ideas beyond the military and make more confident choices for your next chapter, this episode is for you. This concludes our conversation with Kris & Larry from PatriotCare — thanks for listening! Resources Mentioned * PatriotCare - https://www.patriotcarehealth.us/ * The Rosie Network - https://therosienetwork.org/ * Stephanie Brown - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thestephaniebrown/ * Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce - https://milspousechamber.org * Military Family Appreciation Month - https://www.military.com/military-family-appreciation-month * Josh Hager’s Hero WOD with CrossFit - https://www.crossfit.com/workout/2007/02/26#/comments This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

    26 min
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For seasoned spouses exploring new opportunities and ideas outside the military, so that they can make more confident choices for their next chapter. www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

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