This episode of Dog Tag Diaries spotlights Amanda Mae, a 20-year Air Force veteran, marathon runner, and founder of The Woman Veteran Calendar. Host Captain Kim gets Amanda to open up about her unlikely journey from a Massachusetts chicken farm to becoming an indomitable leader in and out of uniform. Topics touch on military service, female veterans’ mental health, sexual assault in the military, and what it truly means to find “grit” as a woman in uniform. Amanda shares unexpected stories, from mastering animal noises as a middle child to rising through the ranks, surviving discouragement, and eventually championing women vets’ representation.

Thinking about life in the armed forces, breaking stereotypes, and building supportive communities for veterans? This conversation serves up humor, honesty, and a celebration of courage. Searching for “women veterans,” “military sexual trauma,” or “veteran community support”? Tune in to hear why Amanda’s story is inspiring so many.

Amanda Mae is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran, founder of The Woman Veteran Calendar, and a passionate storyteller. She’s run four marathons, had her story published in Guideposts magazine, and can belt out the national anthems of three countries. After 20 years in uniform, she’s on a mission to uplift and recognize the women who’ve served before, during, and after her.

Follow & Support Amanda:

🌐 Website: www.womanveterancalendar.com

🔗 LinkedIn: The Woman Veteran Calendar

📘 Facebook: Woman Veteran Calendar

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

What happens when two women who survived one of the darkest days in military history finally talk—together—for the first time? In this emotionally charged episode, Dog Tag Diaries host Kim welcomes Keara and Dayna to share memories of the Fort Hood shooting, the chaos and uncertainty that followed, and how they’re supporting each other years later. Find out how shared trauma can lead to guiding-light friendships, why “community is super important in healing,” and how these veterans navigated limited institutional support.

Curious about the power of storytelling, the role of holistic healing like yoga and essential oils, and the impact of reunions on long-term recovery? Don’t miss this intimate look at courage, vulnerability, and what it truly means to not be alone in your trauma.

On November 5, 2009, Keara Torkelson was preparing to deploy when gunfire shattered the routine at Fort Hood. In a brutal attack that claimed 13 lives and wounded more than 30 others, Keara was shot twice—but survived. Today, she’s turning pain into purpose, mentoring fellow veterans and advocating for those struggling with PTSD.

Connect with Keara on Facebook

Dayna Lopez is an Army veteran, author, and trauma survivor whose life story is a testament to resilience, faith, and healing. Born with a congenital condition that almost kept her from serving, she was granted a military waiver—a decision that ultimately saved her life during the tragic 2009 Fort Hood shooting. Her journey spans childhood anxiety, mental health struggles, and a powerful path to recovery that now includes motherhood, yoga, and advocacy. Co-author of a book with her sister and someone who has met two U.S. presidents, Dayna now helps others heal through vulnerability and movement. She shares her story to remind others that what once felt like a limitation might just be your greatest protection.

📱 Connect with Dayna:

 📸 Instagram: @daynasueyoga 

📘 Facebook: Dayna Sue Lopez 

If you wish to visit their past episodes, here are the links:

Episode 45 with Keara Torkelson

Episode 56 with Dayna Lopez

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

Step into one of the most unforgettable Dog Tag Diaries episodes yet, where resilience takes center stage. Army veteran Dayna Lopez reveals how a childhood scar—the result of a rare congenital birth defect—became the unlikeliest reason her life was spared during the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. military history. Explore Dayna’s journey through trauma, survival, and recovery as she navigates the aftermath, the struggle for quality mental health care, and finding deeper meaning in motherhood and faith.

Listeners looking for real stories about military women, PTSD, trauma recovery, and the power of self-advocacy will find this episode both raw and uplifting. Tune in to discover how sometimes the things that set us apart are the very things that save us—literally.

Dayna Lopez is an Army veteran, author, and trauma survivor whose life story is a testament to resilience, faith, and healing. Born with a congenital condition that almost kept her from serving, she was granted a military waiver—a decision that ultimately saved her life during the tragic 2009 Fort Hood shooting. Her journey spans childhood anxiety, mental health struggles, and a powerful path to recovery that now includes motherhood, yoga, and advocacy. Co-author of a book with her sister and someone who has met two U.S. presidents, Dayna now helps others heal through vulnerability and movement. She shares her story to remind others that what once felt like a limitation might just be your greatest protection.

📱 Connect with Dayna:

📸 Instagram: @daynasueyoga

📘 Facebook: Dayna Sue Lopez

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

What happens when a Naval Academy graduate trades obstacle courses for combat zones, survives an abusive marriage, and rises to become a high-ranking Marine Corps officer while raising six children? You get one of the most gripping stories in military leadership—and exactly why this episode became one of Dog Tag Diaries' most beloved.

While the Dog Tag Diaries team takes a well-deserved summer break, we're bringing back Episode 19—a fan favorite that perfectly captures the resilience, grit, and triumph that define military women. Whether you're a longtime listener ready to revisit this powerful conversation or a newcomer discovering Lieutenant Colonel Kristin Tortorici's incredible journey for the first time, prepare to be inspired by a story that proves no obstacle is insurmountable.

From her participation in American Ninja Warrior to overcoming personal trauma and ascending the ranks of the Marine Corps, Kristin's story is a masterclass in turning adversity into advantage. This episode delivers invaluable insights on balancing ambitious career goals with family life, making it essential listening for anyone navigating the complex terrain of professional and personal success.

LtCol Kristin Tortorici's adventurous upbringing in rural New Jersey laid the foundation for a distinguished military career. Motivated by a strong sense of duty, she joined the armed forces and quickly earned recognition for her dedication and resilience. Kristin's fearless approach and exceptional leadership skills enabled her to excel in various demanding roles, earning respect and commendations along the way.

In addition to her military achievements, Kristin thrives in her role as a mother, instilling in her children the same values of courage, resilience, and adventure. Balancing a demanding career with family life, she cherishes time spent with her loved ones and continues to inspire those around her with her unwavering spirit and commitment to excellence.

Connect with Kristin:

Instagram: @FitMarine_Momof6

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

Step behind the mask with Annette Whittenberger, Army veteran, mental health advocate, and author of The Wall Between Two Lives. In this powerful episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Annette opens up about her 17-year military career—rising to the rank of major while secretly wrestling with anxiety, depression, and unresolved childhood trauma. Host Captain Kim guides a raw, honest conversation about the realities of military service, the pressures women face to “have it all together,” and the challenge of transitioning to civilian life. Annette shares how she found purpose, lost herself, and ultimately reclaimed her identity by breaking her silence and speaking her truth.

If you’re searching for military transition tips, insights on healing after trauma, or real stories from women veterans, this is a can’t-miss listen. Tune in and discover why survival isn’t just about service—it’s about finding the courage to live unmasked.

Annette Whittenberger

International Speaker | Author | Songwriter & Producer | Founder of A Wild Ride Called Life | Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Veteran Lifestyle Magazine | Mental Health Advocate | Mentor

Annette Whittenberger is an international speaker, mental health advocate, and mentor whose journey spans military service, creative expression, and impactful storytelling. She is the Founder of A Wild Ride Called Life, a media platform dedicated to sharing authentic stories of resilience, mental health awareness, and navigating life’s transitions—particularly through a veteran’s perspective.

Her powerful memoir, The Wall Between Two Lives, is an international best-seller that candidly chronicles her experiences as a veteran, mother, and advocate for mental wellness. Annette’s commitment to storytelling extends into music, where she serves as a songwriter and producer, crafting songs that inspire healing and connection.

Connect with Annette:


🌐 Website: www.awildridecalledlife.com


📰 Veteran Lifestyle Magazine: www.veteranlifestylemagazine.com


📖 The Wall Between Two Lives: Amazon Link


📸 Instagram: @awildridecalledlife


📘 Facebook: facebook.com/awildridecalledlife

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

Staff Sergeant Kristen Domke brings a powerful, firsthand perspective to mental health and resilience in the military on this episode of Dog Tag Diaries. Listen as Kristen reveals what it’s like to navigate military service while grappling with trauma, addiction, and the journey to sobriety. Hear how a “community that works together” can also sometimes leave you feeling isolated—and what you do when you need help, but don’t know how to ask for it. Kristen’s story includes her combatting stigma, learning self-advocacy, and the crucial role that faith—and a trusty canine companion—played in her recovery.

If you’re looking for honest military stories, insights into overcoming personal struggles, and tips on finding your own strength, this conversation is for you. Tune in and discover how hope, grit, and purpose can transform even the darkest moments into new beginnings.

About Kristen:

Kristen Domke is a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force, serving since 2012. A proud Dayton, Ohio native, Kristen has lived and served in Germany, Turkey, Washington D.C., and New Mexico. She began her military career in Security Forces and now works in Physical Medicine. Kristen holds a B.S. in Psychology from Liberty University and is pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Life Coaching. A Certified Personal Trainer and musician who once performed at Carnegie Hall, Kristen is also a proud member of the DAF Women’s Rugby club and Team RWB Eagle Leader & Ambassador

Kristen has plans to launch her own business focused on healing and empowerment. She is a woman of faith, a voice for mental health, and a beacon for others on their sobriety journey.

Connect with Kristen:

📸 Instagram: @kristendomke

🎧 The Pod Company discount: 5% off with code: KRISTEN88317

💪 Undrdog Athletix code: KDOM -The Undrdog code gives you 15% off

Kane - Supportive Shoes for Athletes

Team RWB - Health and Wellness Community for Veterans

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

Tune into Dog Tag Diaries for a riveting conversation with Army veteran Dani Shine, whose journey through Desert Storm, military sexual trauma, and a decades-long battle with PTSD and weight gain redefines resilience. In this episode, Dani reveals what it was like being among the first women in infantry training and the unique challenges she faced as a woman in the military. She also opens up about reclaiming her mental and physical health, how trauma manifests in unexpected ways, and the messy, powerful work of healing. Dani has written a memoir "The Weight of Hidden Wounds," that she hopes to get published.

Dani shares insights for veterans, trauma survivors, and anyone searching for hope after hardship. If you’re ready for inspiration, hard truths, and a masterclass in overcoming adversity, press play for a story of strength, healing, and speaking out.

Dani Shine is a proud mom of three and grandmother of two. Her story has been featured in the Bend Bulletin, KTVZ, and Central Oregon Daily. She’s passionate about mental health advocacy and often speaks to schools and veterans' groups to break stigma around trauma and promote healing. Off stage, you might find her camping, doing Jazzercise, or celebrating her 17th anniversary with the man she adores (on Flag Day, no less). Jazzercise-the iconic dance fitness program that combines high-energy dance cardio with strength training, Pilates, hip-hop, yoga, and kickboxing,

💬 Quote from Dani:

“We don’t need to be perfect to be powerful. Healing is messy, but it’s ours.”

Connect with Dani:

📱 TikTok: @dani.shine4

📘 Facebook: ddshine2868

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

Step behind the scenes of a one-of-a-kind Trauma Transformation Retreat for military women in this heartfelt episode of Dog Tag Diaries. Experience the magic that happens when equine therapy, soulful music, nourishing food, and community partners unite for healing and transformation. Listen as Captain Kim welcomes the compassionate team from Healing Reins and special guests, including a gifted pianist whose intuitive connection with horses creates unforgettable, healing moments. Throughout the episode, hear teasers about art therapy collaborations, the powerful impact of storytelling, and how music and horses foster deep connections.

Looking for inspiration about holistic healing, women veterans’ experiences, and the power of partnership? This episode is your invitation to discover what’s possible when passion and purpose meet.

The Healing Reins Team—Erin, Lisa, and the amazing volunteers—you opened your hearts, your horses, and your healing grounds to our participants. The trauma-informed equine therapy you provided created a space of safety, trust, and emotional breakthroughs that words can’t fully capture. You didn’t just show up—you held space for transformation.

Special Thanks To:

Erin, Lisa, the Horses and all the volunteers of Healing Reins

🎹 Paula & Shannon + The Tower Theatre 

🧘‍♀️ Wendy Wilson – creator of AwakenedEarthEssentials For providing your gifts.

Connect with Wendy - [email protected]

🥗 Bleu Bite Catering – For providing delicious, thoughtful meals that nourished our bodies and added warmth and comfort to every gathering.

🌿 Mad Hippie – For contributing clean, healthy skincare products that nurtured and protected participants all weekend long—supporting wellness from the outside in.

🏛️ Oregon Health Authority – For believing in our mission and funding this retreat. Your support made this healing journey possible, and your commitment to trauma-informed care is changing lives.

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

In this eye-opening episode of Dog Tag Diaries, meet Didi Meindok—a Navy veteran, lawyer, and medical scientist—who opens up about her powerful journey from spunky New Orleans tomboy to Operation Desert Storm veteran and beyond. Discover what happens when your military service is “erased by paperwork” and trauma is dismissed by bureaucracy. Didi reflects on battling PTSD, finding unexpected allies, and the strength of women's camaraderie in traditionally male military spaces. Hear how she confronts moral injury, advocates for female veterans, and flips adversity into advocacy.

If you’re seeking real talk about military trauma, women veteran recognition, healing, and the fight for validation, don’t miss Didi's raw truths and her advice for self-advocacy, documentation, and building a resilient support network.

Didi Meindok is a U.S. Navy veteran of Operation Desert Storm, an attorney, and a trained medical scientist. Known as the FilaEstonian, she comes from a long line of seafarers and believes in the importance of truth, justice, and integrity in service. Her first PTSD treatment took place at the same hospital where One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest was filmed—a symbolic start to a lifelong healing journey.

📲 Connect with Didi:

LinkedIn - Dorothy Dagmar Meindok, JD

Facebook - Dorothy Meindok

To contact Didi, email: [email protected]

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.

Curious how women break barriers in the military? In this special episode of Dog Tag Diaries, host Captain Kim welcomes Phyllis J. Wilson, retired Chief Warrant Officer 5, Army intelligence leader, and president of the Military Women’s Memorial. Phyllis reveals how determination, resilience, and a bit of rebellious spirit led her from a childhood of tree climbing to leading 200,000 personnel and serving in over 35 countries. Hear insights on work-life balance with a blended family of eight children, first-hand experiences with gender bias, what it’s really like to be a woman in uniform, and why collecting and honoring military women’s stories matters now more than ever.

If you care about women veterans’ history, leadership, or want authentic military stories that inspire, this one’s for you. Tune in and discover why your story—and every woman’s story—counts.

Phyllis J. Wilson, MPA, BSN, RN

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 (Retired) & President, Military Women’s Memorial

Phyllis J. Wilson is a retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 with 37 years of service in U.S. Army military intelligence, including leadership of over 200,000 personnel and an $8 billion budget. She has served in more than 35 countries and earned high honors including the Legion of Merit.

Now President of the Military Women’s Memorial, Phyllis continues to advocate for women in the armed forces. A Registered Nurse with multiple degrees and a certificate from Duke University, she also serves on several national military and veteran-focused boards.

She’s a decorated leader, dedicated advocate, and proud mother of eight and grandmother of sixteen.

Links and Resources:

• Website - Military Women’s Memorial
• Watch the Segment: Phyllis J. Wilson’s Fox News Appearance
• Adopt a Woman Veteran Project
• Military Women’s Memorial Podcast (in collaboration with Wreaths Across America radio)

How to REGISTER for the Military Women's Memorial - click here

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about 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.