Dog Tag Diaries

Captain Kim
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Dog Tag Diaries provides a platform for military women to tell their stories and speak their truths. We are not only raising awareness about military trauma, and mental health but fostering a supportive community where women can find strength and inspiration in each other's stories. It's an informative way to reduce stigma and promote healing through open dialogue and exploration of therapeutic modalities. Our goal is to increase connections among women to offer empowerment, encouragement, and a sense of belonging as we each navigate the unique challenges and experiences faced by women in the military. Each week we’ll invite a woman who has served in the military to share her experience and how it has impacted her, or we will bring in a guest who can speak about the healing abilities of specific therapeutic methods. This is a podcast you don’t want to miss.

  1. Same Uniform, Different Weight: Dakota Olson-Harris on Deploying Again as a Mother

    4D AGO

    Same Uniform, Different Weight: Dakota Olson-Harris on Deploying Again as a Mother

    Summary: What does it feel like to put the uniform back on when your life at home has changed so much? In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Dakota Olsen-Harris returns to the show for an honest talk about getting ready for her third deployment, this time as a wife and mother of five. She shares how this season feels heavier in new ways, especially with a toddler at home and older kids she will be leaving for the first time for such a long stretch. Dakota opens up about guilt, fear, missing milestones, and the deep love behind those emotions. She also shares the steps she is taking to help her children stay connected, why counseling helped her, and how support from family, friends, church, and community can make a real difference for military families. In this episode, we cover: Dakota’s military path from enlisting in high school to becoming an officerHer first two deployments to Iraq and the UAEWhat it feels like to prepare for a third deployment to GermanyThe emotional weight of leaving as a mother of fiveHelping kids cope through FaceTime, games, and a deployment wallHer fear of being forgotten by her young daughterCreating keepsakes like a voice-recorded stuffed animalMissing birthdays, school events, and big family momentsReaching out for counseling and learning how to process guilt and fearAdvice for military moms and families facing deploymentThe role spouses, pets, and support systems play during long separationsLeading soldiers well while also caring about their families back home Notable Quotes & Moments: “It hits you when you least expect it and when you do expect it.” [00:06:41]“I have this deep-seated fear of being forgotten.” [00:13:37]“I think there’s guilt and fear.” [00:20:18]“I need to be able to talk to someone else about what’s going on.” [00:22:37]“It’s okay to feel those heavy emotions because that’s truly a gift.” [00:23:51] Timestamps: 00:02:45 - Dakota recaps her military journey and early service00:04:21 - What deployment feels like now as a wife and mother of five00:06:03 - The emotions that hit as deployment gets closer00:08:07 - Why she switched to public affairs and chose to see opportunity in this mission00:10:49 - Preparing the kids through games, FaceTime, and a deployment wall00:13:37 - Fear of being forgotten and making her daughter a voice-recorded Build-A-Bear00:16:44 - Missing milestones, birthdays, and everyday family moments00:20:18 - Guilt, fear, and getting counseling support00:23:35 - Dakota’s advice for military moms getting ready to deploy00:29:48 - The weight carried by spouses and partners at home00:33:40 - Leading soldiers with care and making sure families feel supported Dakota Olsen-Harris joined the military while still in high school, driven by a desire to see the world and build a future for herself. Over the years, she has served as an enlisted soldier, completed ROTC, became a combat engineer, deployed to Iraq and the United Arab Emirates, and later moved into public affairs. She is now preparing for her third deployment, this time to Germany. Along with her military service, Dakota is also a readjustment counselor at the Vet Center, a co-founder of the Reveille and Retreat Project, and a strong advocate for military women and families. In this season of life, she is serving while also carrying the very real emotions of being a present mother, wife, and leader. Her story is a reminder that strength and vulnerability can live side by side. Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

    38 min
  2. Justice, Identity, and Purpose: Ashley Miller’s Story of Strength Through Adversity

    MAR 25

    Justice, Identity, and Purpose: Ashley Miller’s Story of Strength Through Adversity

    Summary: What happens when a woman spends nearly two decades in uniform, then has to figure out who she is without it? In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, former Captain Ashley Miller shares the long road that took her from a horse-loving small-town girl in Missouri to enlisted soldier, Army officer, intelligence professional, disaster responder, and now licensed clinical social worker. Her story is honest, thoughtful, and full of hard-earned wisdom about identity, pain, purpose, and starting over. Ashley opens up about growing up with family trauma, surviving intense bullying as a teen, joining the Army at 17, and serving through major turning points that shaped her life. She talks about Hurricane Katrina, military leadership, the stress of transition, and the moment she knew it was time to build a new life. She also shares how horses, therapy, and community helped her heal, and why she now helps women veterans reconnect with themselves and move forward. In this episode, we cover: Growing up in rural Missouri and finding peace with horsesFamily trauma, mental health, and learning to survive hard home dynamicsSevere bullying in high school and graduating early through homeschoolingJoining the Army National Guard at 17 and going through basic trainingStarting as enlisted, then commissioning as an officer through ROTCHow 9/11 changed her career path and kept her in the National GuardLeading communications support during Hurricane KatrinaTransitioning into Military Intelligence and working in England, Germany, and Washington, D.C.The financial and leadership crisis that pushed her to leave the militaryBecoming a social worker and creating a new mission helping women veterans healWhy mentorship matters and the advice she gives women entering military service Notable Quotes & Moments: “When I’m with my horse, I feel so like myself.” – Ashley Miller [00:06:34]“I just figured life out because I was like, this was not the plan.” – Ashley Miller [00:25:42]“I felt like the universe was telling me, Ashley, it is okay for a new okay.” – Ashley Miller [00:32:50]“I love being a mentor for others now.” – Ashley Miller [00:40:33]“Do not ever try and be one of the boys.” – Ashley Miller [00:42:07]“You have the capability. You have the brains. You have the competency.” – Ashley Miller [00:42:21] Timestamps: 00:01:59 – Meet former Captain Ashley Miller and hear the arc of her story00:05:31 – Childhood in rural Missouri and a lifelong bond with horses00:08:20 – Family trauma, PTSD in the home, and why horses felt safe00:10:10 – Bullying, injustice, and leaving high school early00:12:12 – Homeschooling, graduating at 16, and joining the Army at 1700:13:16 – Basic training at Fort Jackson and early military culture shock00:18:22 – Enlisted years, ROTC, and becoming an Army officer00:19:23 – How 9/11 changed her expected military path00:21:09 – Hurricane Katrina and leading in disaster response00:26:12 – Transitioning into Military Intelligence00:30:54 – Why she knew it was time to leave the military00:38:34 – Studying social work and moving toward a new purpose00:41:53 – Ashley’s advice to women entering or serving in the military Ashley joined the U.S. Army in 1999 at just 17 years old. Over nearly two decades, she served as an enlisted Soldier, commissioned Officer, Department of Defense contractor, and Department of the Army Civilian. Her service includes disaster response missions, tours at national-level intelligence agencies, and leadership across multiple components of the Army. After resigning her commission in 2016, Ashley transitioned intentionally, earning her Master of Social Work and becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Today, through her private practice, she supports Veterans navigating reintegration, identity shifts, trauma recovery, and personal growth. She is also a lifelong equestrian, a 1996 National Champion in Competitive Trail Riding through the North American Trail Ride Conference, and certified in the EAGALA model of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Ashley now integrates horses, healing, and her deep understanding of military culture to help women Veterans reconnect, heal, and thrive. Connect with Ashley: Website: https://www.hopeandrenewalcounseling.com/ Facebook: Petunia.smith.56 Instagram: @ashleyandthebogey Contact: amillerlcsw@hopeandrenewalcounseling.com Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

    45 min
  3. Defiance of Silence: Army Veteran Val Foglesong on Healing, Humor, and Finding Her Voice

    MAR 18

    Defiance of Silence: Army Veteran Val Foglesong on Healing, Humor, and Finding Her Voice

    Summary: What does healing look like when years of silence finally break? In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Val Fogelsang shares the road that took her from a curious, outdoorsy homeschool kid in Texas to an Army combat medic, OR nurse, forensic nurse, and podcast host. Her story is honest, painful, funny, and deeply human. What started as a childhood dream of serving in the military became a life shaped by service, trauma, motherhood, faith, and the slow work of finding her voice again. Val opens up about growing up in a hard home, joining the Army at 18, surviving sexual trauma, and carrying pain for years without the words to name it. She also shares how healing began, how she learned to stop hiding, and why she now helps others tell the truth through her podcast, Defiance of Silence. Her story is a strong reminder that pain may shape us, but it does not have to define us. In this episode, we cover: Growing up in Texas, homeschooling, and finding safety in nature and books Early dreams of becoming an Army nurse Childhood trauma, silence, and the weight of generational pain Joining the Army after high school and starting over Basic training, culture shock, and serving as a woman in uniform Surviving military sexual trauma and keeping it buried for years How nursing school helped bring hidden pain to the surface The life-changing moment she unexpectedly saw her assailant again Learning to ask for help during depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts How healing led her to support survivors through Defiance of Silence Notable Quotes & Moments: “You were carrying things that were never yours to carry.” – Val Fogelsang [00:13:40] “I am not well.” – Val Fogelsang [00:17:12] “I never looked back.” – Val Fogelsang [00:23:01] “You’re not alone.” – Val Fogelsang [00:43:07] “What you don’t transform will transfer to your children.” – Val Fogelsang [00:46:15] Timestamps: 00:01:06 – Meet Val Fogelsang and hear a preview of her story 00:03:47 – Childhood in Texas, homeschooling, and finding comfort outdoors 00:08:09 – Dreaming of becoming an Army nurse 00:10:26 – Childhood abuse, trauma, and learning to shut feelings down 00:18:20 – Why Val joined the Army at 18 00:23:43 – Basic training, medic school, and early military life 00:27:02 – First duty station and surviving sexual assault 00:30:23 – Nursing school and first hearing the term military sexual trauma 00:36:03 – The moment she saw her assailant again in public 00:41:49 – COVID, mental health struggles, and finding other veteran women 00:43:13 – Creating Defiance of Silence and helping survivors speak 00:46:15 – The lesson that changed how she sees healing and motherhood Valerie “Val” Foglesong is a proud U.S. Army Veteran, Registered Nurse, and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. A trauma survivor turned healer, Val is dedicated to helping others rediscover their voice and self-worth through compassion, authenticity, and laughter. She’s the host of the Defiance of Silence Podcast, a show that gives survivors of sexual trauma a space to share their stories without shame. When she’s not in scrubs or behind the mic, Val can be found volunteering at a horse sanctuary, swapping dad jokes, or chasing her next wild adventure with her husband and two daughters in Texas. Connect with Val: Podcast: Defiance of Silence Podcast Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

    47 min
  4. From Army Colonel to Community Leader: Kimberly Moros on Purpose, Leadership, and Life After Service

    MAR 11

    From Army Colonel to Community Leader: Kimberly Moros on Purpose, Leadership, and Life After Service

    Summary: What happens when the uniform comes off after 30 years of service? For retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel Kimberly Moros, it meant discovering a new way to lead. In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Kimberly shares the journey that took her from a curious, competitive kid in Arizona to a senior military leader and eventually into civic leadership. What began as a simple visit to an ROTC office turned into a three-decade career filled with global assignments, mentorship, and service alongside remarkable people. Kimberly reflects on the lessons she learned about teamwork, resilience, and stepping into opportunities even when the path ahead is unclear. After retiring as a Colonel, she continued serving by helping women turn their military experience into meaningful community leadership through The Policy Circle. Her story is a powerful reminder that leadership does not end with military service. It simply takes on a new mission. In this episode, we cover: Growing up immersed in teamwork, sports, and shared goalsWhy she chose military service as a path for growth and responsibilityHow leadership in the military shaped her sense of purposeServing for three decades and transitioning out of uniformWhy service doesn’t end at retirement, it evolvesEmpowering women veterans and military-connected women through civic engagementThe mission and impact of The Policy CircleAdvice for women considering military service or navigating leadership beyond it Notable Quotes & Moments: “If it’s in front of you, try it. If it works, keep going. If it doesn’t, find another path.” – Kimberly Moros [00:09:00]“When you put that uniform on, service becomes a way of life.” – Kimberly Moros [00:01:12]“The best part of military service is the people you meet. You would have never crossed paths otherwise.” – Kimberly Moros [00:09:33]“Leadership isn’t about rank or position. It’s about people.” – Kimberly Moros [00:29:02]“If you don’t allow the doors to open, the doors will always stay shut.” – Kimberly Moros [00:45:00] Timestamps: 00:01:37 – Meet retired Army Reserve Colonel Kimberly Moros00:03:26 – Kimberly’s childhood and love of teamwork00:06:03 – Discovering ROTC and choosing the Army00:10:54 – Serving as a woman in uniform00:15:12 – International assignments and career turning points00:16:27 – The emotional moment she was promoted to Colonel00:17:00 – Supporting wounded service members at SOCOM00:23:17 – Life after retirement and discovering The Policy Circle00:31:02 – Real stories of women creating change in their communities00:42:11 – Advice for military women about taking opportunities Kimberly Moros is a retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel who served from 1990 to 2020. Raised as the youngest of two brothers, she grew up active, competitive, and deeply rooted in teamwork. Sports, discipline, and shared goals shaped her early life and laid the foundation for a career in service and leadership. After retiring from the Army, Kimberly continued her commitment to service as a Military Fellow and Civic Coach with The Policy Circle, where she supports women, particularly veterans, spouses, and caregivers, in developing civic leadership skills and creating community-level impact. She is also an Executive and Leadership Coach, helping individuals reconnect with purpose, values, and direction. Outside of work, Kimberly enjoys staying active, cooking, learning new things, and connecting with people who care deeply about making a difference. Connect with Kimberly: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-moros/ The Policy Circle: https://www.thepolicycircle.org The Policy Circle is a national nonprofit organization that equips women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage in thoughtful policy discussions and lead at the state and local level. Through structured, nonpartisan dialogue and leadership development programs, The Policy Circle helps women move from informed conversation to informed action in their communities. Learn more at www.thepolicycircle.org. For military members, veterans, spouses, and caregivers who want to continue serving beyond the uniform, The Policy Circle offers dedicated programming and connection through its Military Initiative and Civic Leadership programs. Learn more and get involved at https://thepolicycircle.org/military. Connect with The Policy Circle Website: https://thepolicycircle.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-policy-circle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepolicycircle Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepolicycircle YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePolicyCircle Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

    46 min
  5. A Military Mom and Her Daughter Speak Out: Service, Sacrifice, and Healing

    MAR 4

    A Military Mom and Her Daughter Speak Out: Service, Sacrifice, and Healing

    Summary: What does military service look like through the eyes of both a mother in uniform and the daughter who grew up alongside it? In this heartfelt episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Amy Almond-Schmid and her daughter Macynn Schmid share an honest, multi-generational conversation about life shaped by military service. Amy joined the Air Force at just 17 and built a 26-year career serving across active duty, the reserves, and the Air National Guard. But service did not happen in isolation. Deployments, career opportunities, and the demands of military life deeply affected her family, especially her daughters. Macynn reflects on growing up with pride, confusion, and resilience while navigating moves, deployments, and the realities of military childhood. Together they speak openly about motherhood, healing, mental health, and how those experiences led Amy to lead the Returning Veterans Project, which provides free mental health and wellness care for veterans, service members, and their families. In this episode, we cover: Growing up in the Pacific Northwest and early experiences with service Joining the military at seventeen and learning military culture in real time How education, travel, and exposure to the world shaped Amy’s identity Experiencing 9/11 in uniform and deploying at a young age Motherhood, postpartum mental health, and the weight carried quietly Balancing military service, marriage, and raising children How military life impacts the nervous system, relationships, and daily living Mental health for veterans and military families What it’s like to be a military child and eventually step into independence Why doesn’t service just affect the service member, it affects the whole family Notable Quotes & Moments: “I joined at 17, looking for a way forward. I had no idea how much it would shape my life.” – Amy Almond-Schmid [00:05:03]“I realized not everyone in uniform has the same values you do.” – Amy Almond-Schmid [00:15:56]“It’s your parents’ first time living too.” – Macynn Schmid reflecting on forgiveness and perspective [00:36:56]“I couldn’t tell my kids to seek help if I wasn’t willing to get help myself.” – Amy Almond-Schmid on choosing therapy and healing [00:22:11]“At what cost? That’s the question every military parent eventually has to face.” – Amy Almond-Schmid [00:36:05] Timestamps: 00:01:50 – Meet Amy Almond-Schmid and her daughter Macynn Schmid00:04:05 – Amy’s childhood and decision to join the military at 1700:08:40 – Early Air Force career and first deployment overseas00:15:56 – Realities of serving as a woman in the military00:22:11 – Motherhood, trauma, and choosing therapy00:29:19 – Macynn’s perspective growing up in a military family00:32:00 – The emotional toll of deployments and time apart00:38:40 – The mission behind Returning Veterans Project00:46:50 – Macynn’s path toward working with animals and nonprofits00:49:00 – Why therapy, healing, and honesty matter for military families CONNECT & LEARN MORE: Returning Veterans Project Website: https://returningveterans.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningveteransproject/ Amy Almond-Schmid Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schmiddypooh Amy Almond-Schmid is the Executive Director of the Returning Veterans Project and a senior enlisted leader in the Oregon Air National Guard. She joined the U.S. Air Force in 1999 at age 17 and has served across active duty, the Air Force Reserve, and the Air National Guard for more than 26 years. Her career has focused on supporting service members and their families, with a strong commitment to mental health, resilience, and community care. Macynn Schmid grew up as a military child navigating deployments, relocations, and the realities of having a parent in uniform. Today she works as a veterinary assistant and hopes to build a future in nonprofit animal rescue and therapy programs that support healing and emotional well-being. We recently signed an MOU with Returning Veterans Project to be listed as a resource that serves veterans. This partnership means that we have access to free trainings that they host. To access the trainings go to returningveterans.org, events, continuing education trainings, sign up under RVP volunteer and type in reveilleandretreat@gmail.com. Then continue to follow the prompts. The Returning Veterans Project is a nonprofit that provides free and confidential mental and physical health services to veterans, service members, and their families in Oregon and Southwest Washington. The organization connects individuals with a network of volunteer health professionals to address issues such as PTSD, anxiety, and physical disabilities. Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

    52 min
  6. From 9/11 to Congress: Army Veteran Cait Conley's Next Mission to Serve America

    FEB 25

    From 9/11 to Congress: Army Veteran Cait Conley's Next Mission to Serve America

    Summary: What makes a 16-year-old decide, within 24 hours of 9/11, to dedicate her life to serving her country? In this powerful Season 7 episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Cait Conley shares her journey from a working-class childhood in New York’s Hudson Valley to West Point, six combat deployments, and senior national security roles at the White House and Department of Homeland Security. Cait opens up about leading counterterrorism missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Yemen, supporting soldiers through the mental toll of war, and protecting U.S. elections and critical infrastructure. Now running for Congress in New York’s 17th District, she explains why this is her second call to serve. This conversation is about grit, leadership, love of country, and choosing service again and again. In this episode, we cover: Cait’s childhood in the Hudson Valley and early lessons in leadership The impact of 9/11 and her decision to attend West Point Serving 16 years in uniform with six deployments Leading counterterrorism and protecting civilians in combat zones Her role at the White House and in national security Why is she running for Congress in 2026 The launch of the “Hellcats,” four women veterans running for office Advice for women considering military service today Notable Quotes & Moments: “This was my second call to serve.” – On deciding to run for Congress [00:24:43] “You don’t serve a person or a party. You serve the Constitution.” [00:34:08] “Less excuses, more results.” – On leadership in Washington [00:29:59]"Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t belong or that you aren’t tough enough. You are. Where there’s a will, there’s a way." – Her advice for women thinking about joining the military [00:33:21] Timestamps: 00:01:06 – 9/11 and her decision to serve 00:08:12 – Life as a military police officer and first responder 00:14:38 – Combat deployments and counterterrorism missions 00:21:03 – White House and national security leadership 00:23:21 – Why she’s running for Congress 00:25:02 – The Hellcats and women veterans running in 2026 00:33:36 – Advice for the next generation of women in uniform Connect with Cait: Twitter: https://x.com/CaitforNewYork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitconley/ Website: https://caitconley.com/ Cait Conley is a Hudson Valley native, Army combat veteran, and national security expert. She served sixteen years as an active-duty Army officer and deployed six times to combat zones including Iraq, Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, and North Africa. She led counterterrorism operations targeting high-threat networks, earned three Bronze Stars, and was part of the Army’s first MP platoon assigned to a Stryker brigade in Iraq. After her military service, Cait continued serving our country as Director of Counterterrorism on the National Security Council at the White House, and later at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, where she worked to secure America’s critical infrastructure and elections. Today, Cait is running for Congress in New York’s 17th District and is a member of the Hell Cats, a group of female veterans running for office in the 2026 midterms. Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

    40 min
  7. From Dinner Table to National Impact: How Melissa Washington Is Changing the Game for Women Veterans

    FEB 18

    From Dinner Table to National Impact: How Melissa Washington Is Changing the Game for Women Veterans

    Summary: Melissa Washington returns to Dog Tag Diaries for a powerful refresher conversation that blends reflection with real-world strategy. Since her first appearance in Episode 9, her organizations have grown into nationally recognized platforms supporting women veteran entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers. In this episode, Melissa shares how Women Veterans Alliance has evolved, why Women Veterans Giving was created, and what she has learned about building sustainable nonprofit and business ecosystems. We also reflect on the Melissa Washington Small Business Award, our shared experience at the Veterans in Business Network National Conference, and the importance of intentional collaboration. This conversation is for women veterans who are thinking long term but building in real time. In this episode, we cover: The evolution of Women Veterans Alliance since Season 1Why women veteran entrepreneurs need both community and infrastructureThe purpose and impact of the Melissa Washington Small Business AwardKey takeaways from the Veterans in Business Network National ConferenceNew collaborations and ventures Melissa is developingPractical lessons for women veterans building businesses and nonprofits now Notable Quotes & Moments: “You miss 100% of the shots you never take.” – Melissa on taking risks and starting before you feel ready [00:13:42]“I was flying the plane and building it at the same time.” – On launching without a business plan [00:11:02]“If I can kick in the door for others, that’s what I’m going to keep doing.” – Melissa on legacy and leadership [00:28:52]“Do it, sister. Do it.” – Her advice to women sitting on an idea [00:43:51] Timestamps: 00:03:28 – How Women Veterans Alliance started 00:06:18 – When growth required structure 00:14:42 – Inside the Women Veterans Alliance website and resources 00:21:33 – Women Veterans Engaged Conference explained 00:30:25 – The Melissa Washington Small Business Award 00:36:30 – The power of funding and community support 00:42:14 – Advice for women building something new Connect with Melissa: Women Veterans Alliance: https://www.womenveteransalliance.com Women Veterans Giving: https://www.womenveteransgiving.org Melissawashington.com http://Www.Veteran.Events Melissa Washington is an award-winning advocate, speaker, author, entrepreneur, CEO, publisher, Radio Show Host, and proud Navy veteran. She wears many hats. Yet woven throughout her diverse pursuits is a mission of service and a passion to empower her fellow women veterans. The daughter of a Bronze Star Army Vietnam War veteran, Melissa grew up in San Francisco’s East Bay. Fiercely independent as a child, she spent many afternoons in her family’s video store, developing an early sense of business acumen. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Jarrod, and daughter, Maya. In addition to being an avid genealogist, Melissa loves vacationing with her family, particularly trips that involve a beach. Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

    47 min
  8. From Service to Self-Discovery: The Journey to Joy with Kimberly Mitchell

    FEB 11

    From Service to Self-Discovery: The Journey to Joy with Kimberly Mitchell

    Summary: In this episode, we sit down with Kimberly Mitchell, a resilient veteran and transformational leader whose journey spans military service, leadership development, entrepreneurship, and personal healing. Kimberly opens up about growing up in a single-parent household with four siblings, navigating loss at a young age, and discovering her strength and curiosity early in life. She shares how joining the Air Force expanded her worldview, took her around the globe, and shaped her leadership philosophy—especially as the only woman in her Vehicle Maintenance training class. Her military experience laid the foundation for a successful career in training and development, eventually leading her to create the Journey to Joy Personal Transformation System after facing her own mental health challenges. This conversation explores resilience, identity, mental health, and the power of joy as a transformative force. Key Topics: Kimberly’s childhood, curiosity, and resilience after the loss of her fatherWhat motivated her to enlist in the Air Force and later serve in the NY Army GuardHer experience as the only woman in her Vehicle Maintenance training classDeployments to Norway, Germany, and Saudi Arabia during Desert Shield/Desert StormHow military structure and leadership principles shaped her careerTransition to civilian life and her path into training, leadership development, and entrepreneurshipHer mental health journey and the spark that led to developing the Journey to Joy Personal Transformation SystemThe importance of joy, self-sufficiency, and community in personal transformationAdvice for women joining or currently serving in the military Notable Quotes & Moments: “Join! You can do more than you think. Being the only woman in my unit at times was challenging, but it taught me so much about my own strength.” - Kimberly Mitchell on highlighting her strength and determination in a male-dominated space [00:20:00]“You’re on this airport walkway and it feels like you can’t get off… but you can.” – Kimberly on the feeling many women face between ages 40–60 [00:37:00]“Your beliefs are just thoughts you’ve been thinking over and over again. If you don’t like your life, start by changing those thoughts.” – Kimberly on building the Journey to Joy system [00:38:15]“We are our own greatest resource. Once you look within, you will find all the answers you need.” – Kimberly’s message to women entering or leaving the military [00:45:12] Timestamps: 00:01:08 – Kimberly Mitchell’s early life in Rochester, NY00:01:20 – Losing her father at age 16 and how it shaped her00:03:00 – Being the only woman in her vehicle maintenance tech school00:04:00 – Overcoming doubts and outscoring her male classmates00:06:00 – Early military life, being stationed with no other women00:07:55 – Deployment during Desert Shield & Desert Storm00:10:54 – Returning home and the challenges of reintegration00:13:00 – Struggles with identity, depression, and personal discipline00:15:40 – How her military training influenced her corporate career00:17:00 – The turning point: realizing no program could “fix” her00:18:30 – Creating the Journey to Joy Personal Transformation System00:21:00 – The power of belief, daily action, and personal accountability00:23:35 – Using neuroplasticity and breaking mental habits00:26:00 – Building the program for women 40–60 ready to reset00:28:45 – Kimberly’s advice to military women in transition00:29:18 – Closing reflections and where to find Journey to Joy Connect with Kim: Website: https://kimm.co/ Journey to Joy: http://www.youjourneytojoy.com/ Kimberly Mitchell is a veteran, mental health advocate, speaker, and transformational leader committed to empowering individuals and small businesses. She grew up in a tight-knit neighborhood where independence was essential and excelled academically, earning awards including the Daughters of the American Revolution Citizenship Medal. After losing her father at 16, she turned hardship into motivation and enlisted in the Air Force. As the only woman in her Vehicle Maintenance training class, she earned the highest test scores and later served during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, achieving the rank of E-4 Sergeant. After transitioning to civilian life, Kimberly built a successful career in training and leadership development, supporting major projects such as the 2010 Census digital transition and the Rochester Schools Modernization Program. Her entrepreneurial spirit led to several business ventures and the creation of a thriving six-figure training business. Her own mental health journey inspired her to develop the Journey to Joy Personal Transformation System, helping others break free from limiting beliefs and step into their power. Kimberly is a founding member of the Greater Rochester Black Business Alliance and serves on the board of ROCEDC. Her mission is to inspire transformation through joy, empowerment, and self-sufficiency. Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about the Reveille and Retreat Project: reveilleandretreatproject.org Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project You aren’t alone. If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

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5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Dog Tag Diaries provides a platform for military women to tell their stories and speak their truths. We are not only raising awareness about military trauma, and mental health but fostering a supportive community where women can find strength and inspiration in each other's stories. It's an informative way to reduce stigma and promote healing through open dialogue and exploration of therapeutic modalities. Our goal is to increase connections among women to offer empowerment, encouragement, and a sense of belonging as we each navigate the unique challenges and experiences faced by women in the military. Each week we’ll invite a woman who has served in the military to share her experience and how it has impacted her, or we will bring in a guest who can speak about the healing abilities of specific therapeutic methods. This is a podcast you don’t want to miss.

Information

  • Creator
    Captain Kim
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    87
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Captain Kim
  • Show Website
    Dog Tag Diaries

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