This one’s real life.

In this episode of The Debrief with Staci & Ruthie, we’re talking about a season neither of us necessarily wanted… but one we’re stepping into anyway.

We’re both about to be “married single moms.”

Not because anything is wrong in our marriages…

But because our husbands are stepping into callings that are pulling them away for a season — police academy, military deployment, and all the unknowns that come with it.

And if we’re honest?

It’s a mix of:

💔 missing them already

😅 wondering how we’re going to manage it all

🙏 and also feeling incredibly proud of the men they are

We talk about:

• The reality of doing life (and parenting) solo for a season
• The tension between supporting your husband and just wanting him home
• Letting go of control and trusting God in the unknown
• Building your “team” and actually asking for help
• Shifting from “I have to manage everything” → “I believe in my family”
• Finding meaning in the hard instead of staying stuck in “why me”

And maybe most importantly…

We talk about what it looks like to love someone so much, that it actually hurts to let them go do what they’re called to do.

If you’ve ever:

• Had a partner travel for work
• Been a military or first responder spouse
• Felt like you were holding everything together at home
• Or just needed someone to say “this is hard, and you’re not alone”

This one’s for you.

💛 We see you.

💛 We’re in it too.

💛 And we’re figuring it out one day at a time.

If this episode hit home, send it to a friend who’s in a similar season or message us.

We’d love to hear your tips, your stories, or just know we’re not the only ones in it.

Thank you for being here with us. Seriously.

If you’re struggling and need immediate support, you can call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or go to your nearest ER.

We also love supporting first responders, check out Beyond the Sirens on Facebook or send them a donation.

And if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just ready for something to shift…

Staci offers 1:1 coaching → book a complimentary session here!