Our Navy Life

Naval Services FamilyLine
  • 4.9 (12)
  • Relationships
  • Updated Biweekly

Your journey as a Navy family can be exciting and fulfilling. It can also be confusing and stressful. For all your challenges and triumphs — from how to thrive during deployments to navigating Tricare — Naval Services FamilyLine has been your go-to resource since 1965. If you're living the Navy Life, this podcast is for you. Join us as we discuss ways to navigate this Navy life together and define what it means to be a modern Navy family.

  1. Sep 10

    S9 E2: Ombudsman Appreciation: The People Connecting Navy Families to Their Commands

    When navigating Navy life, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. A new duty station, an upcoming deployment, an unexpected challenge, or simply a question about available resources can sometimes leave Navy families wondering where to start. That's where one of the Navy's most important family support resources comes in: the command ombudsman. In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost is joined by Mrs. Angie Perryman, spouse of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy and an Ombudsman-at-Large, for a conversation about the people who help connect Navy families to their commands, resources, and communities. They also break down what an ombudsman actually does, the kinds of situations they can help families navigate, and why connecting with your command ombudsman before a problem arises can be an important part of staying informed and connected. In recognition of Ombudsman Appreciation Day, this episode is also a thank-you to the volunteers across the Navy who answer calls, share information, connect families with resources, welcome newcomers, and provide a familiar point of contact when Navy life feels unfamiliar. Whether you're a brand-new Navy spouse, a seasoned military family member, or someone considering becoming an ombudsman yourself, this episode offers a closer look at the people and connections helping strengthen Navy families and their commands. Key Topics & Highlights Meet Angie Perryman: A Navy Spouse's JourneyBefore discussing her role as an Ombudsman-at-Large, Angie shares her own experience navigating Navy life. Finding Community in Navy LifeTeal and Angie discuss the importance of finding your people, the individuals who helped Angie navigate Navy life, and how those experiences can inspire military spouses to support and encourage the families around them. What Exactly Does a Navy Ombudsman Do?Military life can mean starting over again and again, making new connections at every duty station, and learning how to build community wherever you land. Teal and Angie discuss the importance of finding your people, the individuals who helped Angie navigate Navy life, and how those experiences can inspire military spouses to support and encourage the families around them. Why You Don't Have to Wait Until Something Goes WrongAn ombudsman isn't only there for families during a crisis. Connecting with your ombudsman, knowing who they are, and staying informed about your command community can help families build connections and know where to turn before they ever need assistance. Could You Be an Ombudsman?For listeners interested in becoming more involved in their command community, Angie shares the qualities that can make someone a strong ombudsman. You don't have to have all the answers or decades of Navy experience to make a difference. A willingness to learn, listen, connect with others, and help families find the right resources can go a long way. Ombudsman Appreciation DayMuch of an ombudsman's work happens quietly and behind the scenes. It's the phone call. The email. The welcome to a new family. The information shared before a deployment. The resource referral. And sometimes, it's simply being the person who says, "Here's where you can start." In recognition of Ombudsman Appreciation Day, Angie shares what the day means to her and offers a message to the volunteers across the Navy who dedicate their time and energy to supporting fellow Navy families. A Message for Every Navy FamilyAngie shares practical encouragement for families looking to connect more with their command community and explains why knowing who your ombudsman is can be an important part of family readiness. Resources & Links: Naval Services FamilyLine Website NS FamilyLine Facebook NS FamilyLine Instagram To the ombudsmen serving commands around the world: thank you.

  2. Aug 25

    S9 E1: The Navy Beyond the Base: Why America's Maritime Future Starts With Families

    Notes:In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost takes a step back to explore the bigger picture of America's relationship with the sea and why our maritime strength matters to every American. Joining her is Mike Stevens, the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy and Chief Executive Officer of the Navy League of the United States. Mike shares his journey through 33 years of Navy service, including his time as MCPON, and explains what his experience taught him about Sailors, families, and readiness. He also discusses his transition from senior enlisted leadership to the Navy League. Whether you're part of the Navy community or simply someone who wants to better understand why America's sea services matter, this episode offers a look beyond the base and into the larger mission that connects our Navy, our families, our communities, and our nation. Key Topics & Highlights: From MCPON to Navy League CEO Mike Stevens reflects on his 33-year Navy career, including his time as the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. He shares what his years of deckplate leadership taught him about Sailors, leadership, and the families who support the force. Mike also discusses his transition from the Navy to the Navy League of the United States and what drew him to an organization dedicated to supporting America's sea services. What Does It Mean to Be a Maritime Nation?America's relationship with the ocean touches nearly every part of our lives—from global commerce and supply chains to jobs, transportation, national security, and international relationships. Teal and Mike unpack what it actually means to call the United States a maritime nation and why Americans who may never set foot on a ship should still care about what happens at sea. The Navy and America's Security A strong Navy gives the United States the ability to protect national interests, respond to crises, deter conflict, and operate around the world. Mike explains why maritime strength matters to America's security and why maintaining a capable and ready sea service is about much more than military power alone. Why Families Are Part of ReadinessReadiness isn't only about ships, aircraft, equipment, and training. It's also about people. Teal and Mike discuss the connection between Sailor well-being, family stability, retention, and mission readiness—and what happens when military families don't have the support they need. They also explore the positive impact that can come when families feel supported, connected, and valued by their service and their communities. Looking Toward America's Maritime FutureTechnology is rapidly changing the way the Navy operates. From artificial intelligence and unmanned systems to cyber capabilities and evolving forms of warfare, the Navy of tomorrow may look very different from the Navy of today. Mike shares his perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead—and what those changes could mean for Sailors and their families. The Navy League's RoleThe Navy League of the United States is a civilian organization focused on supporting, educating, and advocating for America's sea services. Its work includes support for service members and families, public education about the importance of sea power, legislative advocacy, youth programs, and community engagement. Mike explains how the Navy League helps bridge the gap between the sea services and the American public—and why that connection matters for the future of America's maritime strength. Resources & Links Navy League of the United States — Learn more about the Navy League's mission, programs, membership, and support for America's sea services. Navy League Legislative Affairs Navy League Youth Programs — Learn about Sea Cadets, JROTC, Young Marines, and other youth programs supported by Navy League councils. Navy League Membership Naval Services FamilyLine Website NS FamilyLine Facebook NS FamilyLine Instagram

  3. Jul 28

    S8 E5: Explore, Learn & Save This Summer: Inside the Blue Star Museums Program with Vicky Perkins

    Show Notes Summer is the perfect time for military families to explore new places, create lasting memories, and reconnect—but those adventures can quickly become expensive. In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost is joined by fellow Navy spouse Vicky Perkins, Vice President of Programs at Blue Star Families, for a conversation about one of the military community's most beloved summer benefits: Blue Star Museums. Together, they discuss how the program provides eligible military families with free admission to more than 2,000 museums across the country each summer, making it easier to experience everything from children's museums and aquariums to science centers, art museums, and historic sites. Vicky also shares her own military spouse journey, discusses the broader mission of Blue Star Families, and explains why museums play such an important role in helping military families connect with the communities they call home. Whether you're staying close to home this summer, traveling on leave, or settling into a new duty station, this episode will inspire you to discover affordable adventures wherever military life takes you. Key Topics & Highlights Inside Blue Star FamiliesLearn more about the mission of Blue Star Families and the many programs the organization offers to support service members, spouses, caregivers, and children. Vicky also shares how feedback from military families helps shape programs that address real community needs. What is Blue Star Museums?Discover how the Blue Star Museums program works, who is eligible, and why more than 2,000 museums nationwide participate each summer. From world-class art museums to local history museums and children's discovery centers, there's something for every family to enjoy. Making the Most of SummerWhether you're PCSing, vacationing, or spending the summer at your current duty station, Vicky explains why Blue Star Museums is more than just a financial benefit—it's an opportunity to explore new communities, encourage lifelong learning, and make meaningful family memories. Why Museums MatterMilitary families are constantly adapting to new places. Teal and Vicky discuss how museums can help children feel connected to their communities, inspire curiosity, and provide enriching experiences that the whole family can enjoy together. Resources & Links Blue Star Families Blue Star Museums Find a Blue Star Museum Blue Star Families Facebook Blue Star Families Instagram ⁠Naval Services FamilyLine Website⁠ ⁠NS FamilyLine Facebook⁠ ⁠NS FamilyLine Instagram⁠ If this episode inspired your next family adventure, share it with a fellow military spouse, service member, or military family looking for affordable ways to explore this summer. From our Navy family to yours—happy exploring, and we'll see you next time on Our Navy Life.

  4. Jun 9

    S8 E4: PCS Season 2026: What Military Families Need to Know—and the Best Tips We've Learned Along the Way

    PCS Season 2026: What Military Families Need to Know—and the Best Tips We've Learned Along the Way PCS season is here—and with it comes moving checklists, travel plans, housing searches, reimbursement questions, and more than a little chaos. In this episode, Teal is joined by fellow Navy spouse and Naval Services FamilyLine Board Member Jessica Schecter for a conversation about the latest PCS updates military families need to know for 2026. Together, they break down new resources, travel reimbursement changes, childcare support programs, and practical tips gathered from years of navigating military moves themselves. Whether this is your first PCS or your fifteenth, this episode offers helpful information, real-world advice, and a reminder that you're not navigating the process alone. Key Topics & Highlights The New PCS Website The Department of Defense recently launched PPA.mil, a new centralized hub designed to help military families navigate the PCS process. Teal and Jessica discuss what families can find on the site, what it does—and doesn't—replace, and why having a single source for PCS information could help reduce confusion during moving season. Important PCS Policy UpdatesSeveral policy changes accompanied the launch of the new PCS resource platform, including expanded claims filing timelines, new reimbursement eligibility for spouses and dependents during disrupted moves, and enhanced support during peak moving season. PCS Travel Changes for 2026Mileage reimbursement rates, Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE), and per diem rules all look a little different this year. Teal and Jessica walk through the updates, including the expansion of TLE from 14 to 21 days for many CONUS moves and common budgeting mistakes families should avoid. Childcare Transportation Reimbursement Pilot ProgramOne of the most spouse-friendly PCS updates in recent years could help families offset the cost of flying in a caregiver during a move. Learn who qualifies, what expenses may be reimbursed, and how this program acknowledges the very real childcare challenges many military families face during a PCS. PCS Tips from Military FamiliesFrom protecting important documents to surviving temporary lodging and keeping track of household goods, Teal and Jessica share practical advice, lessons learned, and a few PCS confessions along the way. PCS Lightning RoundWhat's the one thing you never let the movers pack? What's the most elite PCS survival skill? Teal and Jessica answer these questions and more in a fun, PCS-themed lightning round. Resources & Links PPA.mil PCS Resource Website Military OneSource PCS Resources MilitaryChildCare.com Naval Services FamilyLine Website NS FamilyLine Facebook NS FamilyLine Instagram If this episode helped you prepare for your next move, share it with a fellow military spouse, service member, or family getting ready for PCS season. From our Navy family to yours — safe travels and smooth moves ahead.

  5. Apr 14

    S8 E3: Data, Advocacy & Real Support: Inside MFAN with CEO Shannon Razsadin

    S8 E3: Data, Advocacy & Real Support: Inside MFAN with CEO Shannon Razsadin Who is truly speaking up for military families — and making sure their experiences lead to real change? In this episode, Teal sits down with Navy spouse and CEO Shannon Razsadin to explore the impactful work of the Military Family Advisory Network (MFAN). From powerful data collection to direct, boots-on-the-ground support, MFAN is helping shape policies and resources that directly affect military families. Together, they discuss how storytelling, research, and advocacy intersect — and why every military spouse’s voice plays a critical role in improving quality of life across the force. Key Topics & Highlights Turning Data Into Change MFAN’s research, including the Military Family 360 Survey, captures the real experiences of military families and translates them into insights that inform policymakers and leaders. Food Insecurity in Military Families A critical issue affecting many in the community, MFAN’s findings have brought national attention to the challenges some families face — and the urgent need for solutions. Emergency Grocery Support During times of crisis, MFAN stepped in with direct assistance, providing tangible support to families in need when it mattered most. Advocacy Made Accessible Advocacy doesn’t require a policy background. Shannon shares how everyday spouses can speak up, share their experiences, and contribute to meaningful change. Resources & Links MFAN Website MFAN Instagram MFAN Facebook NS FamilyLine Website NS FamilyLine Facebook NS FamilyLine Instagram If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow military spouse or friend. The more voices we amplify, the stronger our community becomes. From our Navy family to yours — stay strong, stay connected, and stay mission ready.

  6. Feb 24

    S8 E2: 25 Years of COMPASS: Navigating Navy Life with Confidence with NS FamilyLine COMPASS Director Susan Fox

    25 Years of COMPASS: Navigating Navy Life with Confidence with NS FamilyLine COMPASS Director Susan FoxIf you’ve ever wondered who you’re supposed to call, ask, or trust when Navy life feels overwhelming — this episode is for you. In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost sits down with Susan Fox, Director of the COMPASS program at Naval Services FamilyLine, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of COMPASS — a spouse-to-spouse program that has helped Navy families navigate military life with confidence, clarity, and connection. Susan shares her own journey as a Navy spouse and volunteer mentor, beginning with her first COMPASS class in Guam and continuing through years of service supporting spouses worldwide. Together, Teal and Susan explore how COMPASS equips families with practical knowledge, emotional support, and community — ensuring no spouse has to figure out Navy life alone. Whether you’re brand new to the Navy, a seasoned spouse, or somewhere in between, this conversation highlights why COMPASS remains one of the most trusted resources in the Navy community. In this episode, you’ll hear about: The origin story of COMPASS  How a spouse recognized the need for Navy-specific support and built a program that has served families for 25 years. What COMPASS actually is A peer-led, spouse-to-spouse program offering Navy Life 101 — from benefits and PCS moves to deployments and communication. Why the peer model works COMPASS creates a rank-free, judgment-free environment where spouses learn from lived experience and shared understanding. Confidence through knowledge Participants learn practical skills like reading LES statements, understanding entitlements, planning PCS moves, and navigating deployments. Connection beyond Google While information is online, COMPASS provides nuance, hands-on learning, and real human connection. Support during isolation and transition COMPASS helps spouses build confidence, friendships, and support networks after PCS moves and during deployment seasons. Why seasoned spouses still benefit Even experienced spouses gain new insights, updated policy information, and fresh PCS and deployment tips. Volunteer mentorship & giving back How spouses can become COMPASS mentors and make a tangible impact supporting fellow Navy families. How the program evolved for modern Navy life From curriculum updates to virtual sessions, COMPASS continues adapting to changing Navy policies and family needs. A powerful message for overwhelmed spouses You are not alone. There is a legacy of spouses ready to support you. Resources & Links COMPASS Program Information NS FamilyLine Website NS FamilyLine Facebook NS FamilyLine Instagram COMPASS Instagram: @go.compass If this episode encouraged you, share it with a spouse who is new, transitioning, or feeling overwhelmed. One conversation can open the door to confidence and community. From our Navy family to yours — stay strong, stay connected, and stay mission ready. Resources & Links

  7. Jan 22

    S8 E1: What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking with NYT Bestselling Author & Navy Veteran Spouse Caroline Chambers

    What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking with NYT Bestselling Author & Navy Veteran Spouse Caroline Chambers If you’ve ever stood in front of the fridge after a long Navy day thinking, “I cannot make one more decision,” this episode is for you. In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost sits down with Caroline Chambers — New York Times bestselling cookbook author, recipe developer, Substack creator, mom of four, and former Navy spouse — to talk about realistic cooking for real military life. Caroline knows the Navy spouse season firsthand. After moving from New York to Coronado to be with her husband, a Navy SEAL, she launched a “fake-it-til-you-make-it” catering company built with other SEAL spouses — a pivot that eventually led to her bestselling cookbook, What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking. Together, Teal and Caroline unpack how food, community, and flexibility help military families survive deployments, solo-parenting seasons, PCS chaos, and everyday burnout. In this episode, you'll hear about: From Coronado to Cookbook: How Caroline’s Navy spouse life sparked her career in food media. Letting go of perfection: Why “just get everyone fed” beats gourmet every time — especially with kids. Time-honest cooking: How organizing recipes by real-world minutes builds confidence and removes intimidation from cooking. Busy-life hacks: Smart swaps, fewer ingredients, and grocery-store-friendly cooking for unpredictable schedules. Solo-parent survival strategy: Caroline’s realistic meal-prep system for deployment seasons and long workdays. Food as community: How dropping off meals, salad swaps, and potluck wins help spouses connect at new duty stations. Potluck MVP: Why showing up with a great salad (hello, the Dilly Chop) makes you unforgettable. Rapid-fire favorites: Clean-out-the-fridge meals, pantry must-haves, and comfort food when depleted. The truth about kids and dinner: Even a NYT bestselling author has nights where only one kid eats the meal. Caroline’s message is simple and freeing: Dinner doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to be doable. Whether you’re in a deployment season, PCS transition, or just plain tired of cereal nights, this episode will leave you feeling supported, capable, and hungry in the best way. Book: What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking Newsletter / Substack: https://whattocook.substack.com Instagram: @carochambers Navy SEAL Foundation: https://www.navysealfoundation.org If this episode helped you, share it with a spouse friend in the thick of Navy life — especially the one juggling deployments, kids, and the eternal “what’s for dinner?” question. From our Navy family to yours — stay strong, stay connected, and stay mission ready. Stay Connected With Us:  NSFL Website NSFL Facebook NSFL Instagram

  8. 12/09/2025

    S7 E5: Home for the Holidays… Wherever ‘Home’ Is: OCONUS Traditions That Bring Us Together

    Holidays in the Navy don’t always look like the ones we grew up with. Instead of gathering around familiar tables, many military families find themselves creating new traditions thousands of miles from “home.” In this episode, Teal Yost and guest co-host Kathryn Butler dive into what makes OCONUS holiday seasons both challenging and deeply meaningful. From KFC Christmas dinners in Japan, to Le Befana visiting children in Italy, to 12 grapes at midnight in Spain, to fireworks across Hawaii — they explore how Navy families adapt, connect, and rediscover the heart of the holidays wherever they’re stationed. Whether you’re preparing for your first holiday overseas or reminiscing on duty stations past, this episode is a warm reminder that home is wherever our people are. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Getting to know Kathryn Hear Kathryn’s Navy journey, her OCONUS duty stations, and how living abroad shaped her family’s holiday traditions. What to expect during your first OCONUS holiday season Is it harder? More meaningful? A bit of both? Teal and Kathryn share their honest, lived experience. Japan’s unique Christmas celebrations – Christmas Eve as a couple’s holiday – Stunning seasonal illuminations – The iconic KFC Christmas dinner (yes, really!) – The New Year’s Emperor Greeting Italian holiday traditions – La Befana on January 5 – St. Nicholas Day on December 6 Spanish celebrations – Twelve grapes at midnight for good luck – New Year’s red underwear tradition – Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes) Holidays in Hawaii Fireworks, celebrations, and island traditions that make the season unforgettable. Advice for families spending their first holiday overseas Teal and Kathryn share heartfelt guidance for navigating emotions, expectations, and new memories. Whether you’re a new Navy spouse, a seasoned partner, or a supporter of the Navy community, this episode offers inspiration, history, and a reminder that you’re never navigating this life alone. Stay Connected With Us:  NSFL Website NSFL Facebook NSFL Instagram

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About

Your journey as a Navy family can be exciting and fulfilling. It can also be confusing and stressful. For all your challenges and triumphs — from how to thrive during deployments to navigating Tricare — Naval Services FamilyLine has been your go-to resource since 1965. If you're living the Navy Life, this podcast is for you. Join us as we discuss ways to navigate this Navy life together and define what it means to be a modern Navy family.

Information

  • Creator
    Naval Services FamilyLine
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Naval Services FamilyLine
  • Show Website
    Our Navy Life

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