Summary:

This is another inspiring episode of Dog Tag Diaries Season Seven, where host Captain Kim welcomes Marine officer, mother, and advocate Dr. Jessica Bradley, LtCol, USMC (Retired). Jessica shares her remarkable journey from a small-town Oregon girl inspired by a Vietnam War documentary to becoming one of the first women in her unit to serve in combat operations during Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). She opens up candidly about the challenges of navigating military life as a woman and a mother of a special needs child, breaking gender barriers in the Marines, and leading transformational initiatives like the Secretary of Defense's Women in Service Review Task Force. This episode highlights the intersection of courage, faith, and leadership, encouraging military women to bring their full authentic selves into service and to stay rooted in their calling.

Key Topics:

• Jessica’s early life and inspiration to serve (00:05:29)
• Women’s experience in Marine Corps Boot Camp and leadership lessons (00:09:04)
• Transitioning between enlisted Marine and commissioned officer roles (00:14:02)
• Facing gender discrimination early and later in her career (00:17:20, 00:18:39)
• The importance of faith as a source of strength and guidance (00:20:42)
• Deploying as a single mom and leading in combat during OEF/OIF (00:23:09)
• Family challenges, supporting a child with juvenile diabetes, and military family resources (00:27:42)
• Serving in the Wounded Warrior Regiment and helping wounded Marines transition home (00:30:49)
• Role in repealing the combat exclusion policy and impacting women’s military roles (00:36:23)
• Advice for the next generation of women in uniform (00:42:19)

Notable Quotes & Moments:

• “I can be feminine. I can be my authentic self and be hardcore at the same time.” – Jessica Bradley on leadership and identity [00:11:12]
• “You are a Marine just like them. I was able to compete, lead, and serve.” – Jessica on overcoming gender barriers [00:18:08]
• “Stay the course. Bring all of you into your leadership role… Don’t lose sight of who you are in the midst of serving.” – Jessica’s message to future women in uniform [00:42:19]

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 – Introduction to Dog Tag Diaries & Season Seven theme
• 00:01:16 – Introduction of guest Jessica Bradley
• 00:05:29 – Jessica’s childhood & early inspiration to join the military
• 00:09:04 – Experience at Marine Corps Boot Camp and college ROTC
• 00:14:02 – Transition from enlisted Marine to officer role
• 00:18:39 – Facing gender discrimination as a junior officer and later as a mother
• 00:23:09 – Deployment during OEF/OIF and leadership in combat
• 00:27:42 – Balancing military career with family challenges and special needs parenting
• 00:30:49 – Work in Wounded Warrior Regiment and veteran reintegration support
• 00:36:23 – Involvement in Women in Service Review Task Force and repealing combat exclusion
• 00:42:19 – Closing advice to the next generation of women in uniform
• 00:44:08 – Closing remarks

Dr. Jessica Bradley served in the U.S. Marine Corps as both an enlisted Marine and an officer, ultimately retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel after more than two decades that spanned three MEFs, deployments to OEF/OIF, and leadership roles including Operations Officer at Wounded Warrior Regiment and policy work on the SecDef’s Women in Service Restrictions Review. Her service shaped a leadership style grounded in faith, fitness, and calm strength, and she later completed a doctorate using the Post‑9/11 GI Bill; today, she continues serving veterans as the ODVA Women Veterans Statewide Coordinator.

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.

Get ready for a second tour of Dog Tag Diaries episode featuring Dani Shine, a Desert Storm Army veteran, retired RN, and author of “The Weight of Hidden Wounds.” In this moving conversation, you’ll hear teasers about her remarkable journey through military service, overcoming the weight—physically and emotionally—of trauma, and the challenges women face in the armed forces. From surviving combat and sexual assault to tackling PTSD and life after the uniform, Dani Shine shares flashes of her story with wit and raw honesty.

If you’re searching for true stories about military sexual trauma, female combat veterans, resilience, healing, and PTSD recovery, this episode is made for you. Don’t miss the moments where hope is found in the unlikeliest places, and healing begins—sometimes with chickens, Jazzercise, and a little dirt under your fingernails.

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 anniversary with the man she adores (on Flag Day, no less).

💬 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.

Ever wonder what happens when trauma meets resilience—on both the battlefield and back home? Dog Tag Diaries brings you a special second tour episode with Didi Meindok, Navy veteran, attorney, and medical scientist. Hear about the struggles women face during military service, from being “erased by paperwork” to facing unimaginable challenges like military sexual trauma and moral injury. This episode is packed with stories of identity, recovery, and the power of community care. If you’re seeking inspiration, support, or validation in your own journey, this raw and unapologetic conversation will remind you: you are not alone.

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.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be resilient in the face of gender bias and adversity? In this special “second tour” episode, Dog Tag Diaries spotlights Captain Kim’s journey, from the challenges of being a high-performing woman in the Army to the upheaval caused by sexual harassment and discrimination. Without giving away all the details, you’ll hear hints of support systems, the pursuit of justice, and the healing found through community and counseling.

It's an important opportunity to learn about military sexual trauma support, seeking VA counseling resources, or understanding how military women overcome obstacles, this episode is filled with hope, powerful truths, and advice for future female service members. Tune in for glimpses of courage and connection you won’t forget.

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 does it take to transform trauma into purpose? This episode of Dog Tag Diaries features Marine veteran and musician Barbara Sim, who bravely shares glimpses of her journey from surviving war and assault, to finding self-forgiveness and healing. Hear about the “dark ages” she endured, the power of music, faith, and nature, and her inspiring mission to help fellow veterans through creativity and connection. Curious about the Lioness Program, or how hiking the Appalachian Trail and songwriting became lifelines? You’ll get a taste of Barbara’s resilience, her upcoming album "Sacred and Wild," and her advocacy for healing through neuroscience-informed practices.

Whether you’re a fan of inspirational military stories, women’s empowerment, or creative recovery, this episode offers powerful perspectives. Listen and see why every warrior’s voice matters—season six is building momentum, and you won’t want to miss Barbara’s courageous story.

Barbara Sim served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2005 to 2009 as a Landing Support Specialist, deploying to Iraq with the Lioness Program. After service, she began a long journey of healing through faith, music, and nature — from hiking the Appalachian Trail to touring the U.S. in her self-built van. Today, Barbara is a singer-songwriter, aspiring author, and advocate for veteran healing through creativity, neuroscience, and connection. She continues to share her story on stage and off, inspiring others to transform pain into purpose. After service, she began a journey of healing through faith, music, and nature—from hiking the Appalachian Trail to touring the U.S. in her self-built van. Today, Barbara is a Country, Americana, and Folk singer-songwriter, with Celtic undertones aspiring author, and advocate for veteran healing through creativity, neuroscience, and connection. Her songs carry joy with a little dirt, truth with a little sparkle—hooks you can sing along to and stories that make your heart breathe easier. She writes from a place of peace, love, and play, reminding listeners they were never broken in the first place. Barbara continues to share her story on stage and off, inspiring others to transform pain into purpose.

Connect with Barbara:

 Instagram: @barbarasimmusic

 Website: www.thebarbarasim.com

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.

Ever wondered what it’s really like to be a woman serving in a war zone—and what battles rage on back home? This episode of Dog Tag Diaries brings you Melissa Kilgore’s powerful journey through military life, combat in Iraq, and the hidden challenges of military sexual trauma and family separation. Melissa reveals the costs of resilience, sharing how she rebuilt herself through creativity and art after surviving deep loss and disappointment. From strict military roots to grappling with transition and mental health, Melissa’s story sheds light on the realities female veterans face.

If you’re searching for authentic stories of survival, healing, and hope—or if you want to learn more about veterans’ mental health, creative therapy, and military family dynamics—tune in for a look at the human side of service that rarely makes headlines.

Melissa Kilgore was born in Spokane, Washington, and spent much of her childhood in Europe as an Air Force brat. A single mother of three by age 24, she worked multiple jobs—including with American Airlines—while pursuing her education. At 31, she joined the U.S. Army, later earning a bachelor’s degree in International Affairs with honors and a second degree in Art Practices.

Now based in Portland, Melissa continues to seek meaningful and challenging work while pursuing her passion to become a full-time artist.

Connect with Melissa:

Instagram - @mlk_studio_us

Website - www.mlkstudio.us

Read her writing - A Woman Turning 55

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through military history and personal resilience! In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Captain Kim sits down with Pat Murphy, a veteran who’s served in both the U.S. Army and Navy across decades. From being the oldest of five and learning to live off the land, to facing gender discrimination and blazing trails as a woman in military police, Pat shares stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Curious about what it was like to be an MP in the 1970s, surviving whiteouts in North Dakota, or the experience of handling military working dogs overseas? You’ll catch hints of tough transitions, unexpected camaraderie, and raw honesty about supporting women warriors.

If you’re passionate about veteran stories, women in the armed forces, military podcast interviews or dog handler adventures, this episode is packed with themes that will inspire and surprise you.

Pat Murphy is a proud veteran of both the U.S. Army (1975–1978) and the U.S. Navy (1981–1993). As the oldest of five, Pat grew up outdoors—hunting, fishing, and playing sports alongside her dad. That adventurous spirit followed her into the military, where she embraced both the challenges and the rewards of service.

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.

Join Dog Tag Diaries as Captain Kim continues her compelling conversation with retired Air Force First Sergeant Jess Gonzalez in part two of her journey. This episode offers an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of being a female leader in the military. Jess shares raw accounts of leading with empathy, including a harrowing moment assisting a military spouse in crisis—showcasing what true strength and compassion look like in uniform. Hear about her “mama bear” approach, the importance of supporting mental health, and how she brought small joys to her airmen with simple gestures.

If you’re curious about military women’s leadership, overcoming adversity, and building a legacy of service, this episode is for you. Plus, get a sneak peek into Jess’s life beyond the Air Force, from winning pageant titles to inspiring her local veteran community. Tune in for stories of resilience, advocacy, and empowerment!

Jess Gonzalez is a proud mom to her 19-year-old son, Gio, who inspires her daily. Beyond her military career, she has competed in pageants, run multiple half-marathons, and found peace in travel. She also actively serves with organizations like Women Veterans of San Antonio, The Mission Continues, and Operation Gratitude, and is honored to be part of Cohort 8 of the Beneath the Service Women Veterans Leadership Program where she continues her mission to uplift others through service, mentorship, and authenticity.

One of her most memorable personal achievements was competing in a pageant and winning the Royal Productions People's Choice title.

Connect with Jess

LinkedIn: Jessica Gonzalez, MBA, CPO, DAWIA Lvl 3

IG: jessie_g_1980

Here are the links to the organizations: 

Women Veterans Leadership Program 

Women Veterans of San Antonio 

The Mission Continues 

Operation Gratitude 

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 compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, host Captain Kim sits down with Jess Gonzalez, a retired United States Air Force First Sergeant and advocate, as she shares her inspiring journey from surviving childhood trauma to leading with compassion in the military. Hear teasers about her early life marked by adversity, her unexpected path into the Air Force, and the surprising twist during her basic training experience. Jess opens up about family struggles, deep loss—including her twins and mother—and how these moments shaped her into a resilient leader.

If you're drawn to stories of military women, personal growth, complex PTSD, and overcoming the odds, tune in for a taste of Jess’s raw and honest conversation. Stay tuned to uncover what motivated her to serve, the lessons she learned, and how she uses her voice to bring hope to others navigating similar battles.

Jess Gonzalez is a proud mom to her 19-year-old son, Gio, who inspires her daily. Beyond her military career, she has competed in pageants, run multiple half-marathons, and found peace in travel. She also actively serves with organizations like Women Veterans of San Antonio, The Mission Continues, and Operation Gratitude, and is honored to be part of Cohort 8 of the Beneath the Service Women Veterans Leadership Program where she continues her mission to uplift others through service, mentorship, and authenticity.

One of her most memorable personal achievements was competing in a pageant and winning the Royal Productions People's Choice title.

Connect with Jess

LinkedIn: Jessica Gonzalez, MBA, CPO, DAWIA Lvl 3

IG: jessie_g_1980

Here are the links to the organizations: 

Women Veterans Leadership Program 

Women Veterans of San Antonio 

The Mission Continues 

Operation Gratitude 

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 does it take to journey from a small Mississippi farm to serving as a military officer, traveling to 46 countries, and ultimately building a wellness community for women veterans? In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Dr. Natesha Smith-Isabell unpacks her unexpected path—a life shaped by resilience, faith, and profound transformation. Hear snippets about her near-death medical crisis, facing sexual trauma and moral injury in the Army, and how it all inspired her to co-found Arabella Wellness Center. This conversation covers women veterans’ mental health, military transition challenges, and the importance of trauma-informed support. Plus, discover how Natesha’s global adventures and her love for Marvel Comics contribute to her healing journey. If you’re searching for stories about female veterans overcoming adversity, post-military wellness, or building community after service, you won’t want to miss these insights.

As the CEO and Co-Founder of Arabella Wellness Center, Dr. Natesha Smith-Isabell leads a nonprofit organization that provides trauma-informed care and compassionate support to women, with a special emphasis on wellness services for Women Veterans, educators, and healthcare professionals. With over 15 years of experience in the field of counseling and mental health, she had developed a strong expertise in program development, implementation, and evaluation. She is passionate about empowering women and Veterans through education and wellness.

Connect with Natesha

 LinkedIn: Dr. Natisha Smith-Isabell

 Website: www.arabellawellness.org

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.