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Dog Tag Diaries episodes

  • Healing Beyond Uniforms: Didi Meindok’s Mission to Support Military Women -51

    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.

    41 min
  • Honoring Women Warriors: Phyllis J. Wilson’s Mission of Storytelling and Service -50

    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.

    45 min
  • Healing the Warrior Within: An Inspiring Story of Survival and Spiritual Growth -49

    Get ready for one of the most moving episodes of Dog Tag Diaries yet. In this honest conversation, Caroline Flores pulls back the curtain on her journey from a chaotic childhood in a traditional Mexican-American home, through the trials of military service, and into her evolution as a spiritual healer. Expect raw truths about mental health in the military—topics like surviving suicide attempts, battling shame and isolation after deployment, struggling with belonging, and the hard realities facing women veterans.

    Caroline and host Kim also touch on equine therapy, healing through spirituality, and breaking destructive generational cycles. If you’re searching for inspiration on trauma recovery, women’s resilience, or reclaiming your voice, this episode promises to leave you feeling empowered and seen. Don’t miss the real story behind military service, growth, and hope.

    Caroline Flores grew up in a home that was both joyful and unstable, where sensitivity was met with silence and expectations overshadowed emotion. She joined the Army in search of something solid—something different—and for a while, she thought she’d found it. But deployments brought more than duty; they unearthed buried pain, led her through the mental health system’s broken maze, and eventually into the depths of multiple suicide attempts that changed her forever.

    But Caroline didn’t stay there. She rose—with grit, grace, and a fierce commitment to her healing. Today, she is a spiritual healer and therapist who empowers others to find clarity, reclaim their stories, and reconnect with the warrior within.

    She’s proof that trauma doesn’t define you—but how you choose to transform it does.

    Connect with Caroline:

    🌿 Instagram: @claridadhealing

    🌿 Website: claridadtherapyservices.godaddysites.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.

    41 min
  • Breaking Barriers and Reclaiming Purpose: Dr Jaimie Lusk’s Story of Courage and Truth -48

    Ready for a truly raw and real episode of Dog Tag Diaries? Meet Dr. Jaimie Lusk—Marine Corps officer turned trauma psychologist—as she unpacks her journey from mud-loving kid in rural Oregon to national expert in moral injury and trauma recovery. Host Captain Kim uncovers Jaimie’s candid stories: leadership clashes in Iraq, the complexities of trust after service, and the hilarious tale of "Disneyland Jail." If you’ve ever questioned your fit or fought with imposter syndrome, you’ll want to hear Jaimie’s take on finding a sense of belonging after military life. Why does reconnection matter so much? Can healing actually come from embracing your flaws? This episode is for veterans, mental health advocates, and women navigating identity or leadership. Reignite your courage to trust one more time—start listening now.

    Dr. Jaimie Lusk is a clinical psychologist, consultant, and former Marine Corps Logistics Officer who served during Operation Iraqi Freedom. She is a nationally recognized expert in trauma-focused therapies and moral injury and has dedicated her career to helping veterans and other high-risk populations heal from the invisible wounds of war. Dr. Lusk is known for her fierce compassion, her innovative approach to treatment, and her unwavering commitment to empowering her clients to reclaim their lives and find purpose beyond trauma.

    🔗 Connect with Dr. Lusk:

    🌐 Website: www.drjaimielusk.com

    🧠 Threshold Psychological Services: www.thresholdpsychologicalservices.com

    📖 Blog: Psychology Today - Threshold

    🧠 The Headstrong Project: Learn More 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.

    42 min
  • How Jenn Donahue Built Empathy Driven Leadership in a Male-Dominated Military-47

    Ever wondered what it takes for a "quiet, bookish" girl to command thousands across combat zones? In this inspiring episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Dr. Jenn Donahue—retired Navy captain, civil engineer, and self-described Texas wild thing—breaks the mold. Jenn shares powerful stories about being "the only woman in the room," her unexpected journey into military leadership, and how embracing authenticity reshaped her idea of true leadership.

    From building bridges in Iraq to tackling impostor syndrome on center stage, Jenn offers rare insights into navigating male-dominated spaces, finding mentorship, leading with empathy, and balancing career ambition with family and self-care. Ready to discover why real greatness is about lifting others up, not proving your worth? Tune in and hear how one woman rewrote the rules of military success, resilience, and personal growth.

    Jenn Donahue, PhD is a retired US Navy Captain and former Commodore for an 1,800 personnel Regiment. She is also a civil engineer who works on large scale, high profile geotechnical projects. Over her 27-year military career, Jenn has built a bridge across the Euphrates River in the midst of the Iraq war, commanded an 800-personnel Battalion in Afghanistan, and constructed combat outposts in the middle of deserts filled with insurgents.

    Jenn passionately helps others overcome the obstacles that prevent them from achieving their grandest dreams and most ambitious goals. She is an international keynote speaker with speeches including leadership and mindset.

    Today, Jenn is the Founder of JL Donahue Engineering, Inc. and Dare to Rise. She also lectures at UC Berkeley, UCLA, and CalPoly.

    🔗 Connect with Jenn Donahue:

    🌐 Website: jenndonahue.com

    🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jenndonahue-phd-pe

    📘 Stay tuned for her upcoming book, launching late 2025!

    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.

    41 min
  • Breaking Barriers in Uniform: Lessons in Leadership from LTC Jessica Dunn -46

    Step into the world of Lieutenant Colonel Jessica Dunn, a trailblazing leader whose military journey spans two branches, two wars, and countless barriers broken. In Episode 46 of Dog Tag Diaries, Jessica pulls back the curtain on the realities of being a woman in uniform during a time when the system was built for someone else. From her days as the Coast Guard’s first female swimmer on Cutter Sherman to commanding convoys in Iraq, she dishes on everything from ill-fitting body armor to taboo conversations about women’s needs in combat zones. Curious about how women navigated leadership, policy gaps, and being outnumbered in high-stress environments? Jessica shares how advocating for representation, mentorship, and candid conversation shaped her path—and why these issues still matter today. Press play for a candid, inspiring look inside military resilience, gender equality, and finding your tribe after service.

    Jessica currently serves as the Texas State University (TXST) President for the Veterans Alliance of Texas State (VATS). She cares deeply about Veterans, service, and creating a community for Veteran students, staff, and community Veterans. Jessica also joined the military to serve and has chosen to continue serving her community ever since. She served for 21 years in the military, beginning her career as an Enlisted Service Member in the U.S. Coast Guard on board the USCG Sherman before pivoting to the Army prior to 9/11. She retired from the Army as a U.S. Army Logistics Lieutenant Colonel, having served in the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Iraq as a Convoy Security Company Commander.

    Jessica is married to a fellow service member with 25 years of service. Her family has a deep history of military service: her grandfather was a POW in the Great Raid, her father is a Vietnam Veteran, her brother and nephew have also served, and her children have endured the challenges of moving frequently. She lives with a disability resulting from her Iraq deployment, which she openly shares to encourage others to seek VA assistance. Tragically, Jessica has lost comrades to suicide, a reality that fuels her ongoing advocacy. She is a member of multiple Veteran organizations, including the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), where she contributes to legislative efforts supporting the military community.

    Jessica holds a B.S. in speech communications, and a master's in business administration. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in Adult, Professional, and Community Education, APCE, from Texas State University. She is enthusiastic about Veteran initiatives, and you will find her involved throughout the campus, Texas, and in Washington D.C. in supporting Veterans.

    The list goes on how we share our experiences, sacrifices, and have mutual understanding. Know that I respect you, Veterans, for facing your challenges and pressing on. I look forward to working with Veterans and creating a shared vision for our future.

    Connect with Jessica:

    🔗 LinkedIn: jessica dunn

    🌐 Website: jive-ojs-txstate.tdl.org/jive/index

    📚 Interested in research on women Veterans? Jessica invites collaboration with fellow women who’ve served.

    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.

    48 min
  • From Wounded Warrior to Mentor: Keara Torkelson’s Life After Surviving Fort Hood -45

    What happens when a life-threatening event turns your path upside down—yet leads to newfound strength and service? In this episode, Keara Torkelson shares her firsthand account of the tragic Fort Hood shooting, revealing raw moments of fear, survival, and the aftermath. You’ll get a peek into her journey through PTSD, the struggles of returning home, and how connection with other veterans became her lifeline. From detailing how military life shaped her to the unexpected role of essential oils in her healing, Keara’s story is one of hope and grit. Tune in for heartfelt conversations about support, mental health, and why wounded warrior recognition still matters. Searching for military stories of transformation, survivor experiences, or veterans helping veterans? You’ve found the right episode.

    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. In this episode, Keara shares her harrowing experience, the long road to healing, and why recognition for wounded warriors still matters.

    Connect with Keara on Facebook

    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.

    41 min
  • Resilience and Ambition: How Dr. Allison Brager Reached for the Stars -44

    Join host Captain Kim on Dog Tag Diaries as she engages with Dr. Allison Brager, a woman whose life story embodies courage and perseverance. This episode touches on Dr. Brager’s impressive athletic achievements, including her time as a CrossFit competitor and a record-breaking pole vaulter, while also exploring her contributions to neuroscience and military service. Listeners will be intrigued by Dr. Brager’s insights into the importance of sleep for athletic recovery and mental resilience. Her candid reflections on leading COVID-19 deployment operations highlight the strength and adaptability required in challenging environments. Whether you’re interested in elite sports, neuroscience, or military service, this episode promises enriching perspectives for all.

    Dr. Allison Brager is a neuroscientist, Army officer, and elite athlete with a passion for pushing limits. She’s a former CrossFit Games competitor, an 11-time Gay Olympics gold medalist, and an endurance athlete who has tackled the JFK 50-miler, the NYC Marathon, and is training for a 3.5-mile open-water swim. She’s also the author of Meathead: Unraveling the Athletic Brain and a candidate for NASA’s Astronaut Program.

    Follow Allison:

    • Instagram: @docjockzzz

    Book:

    • Meathead: Unraveling the Athletic Brain

    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.

    40 min
  • The Way Mindy Dougherty Turned Trauma Into Strength—and Found a New Life Again -43

    What does it mean to be a “resilient warrior”? In this gripping episode of Dog Tag Diaries, guest Mindy Dougherty takes listeners on a journey from a childhood marked by chaos and trauma to her years as an Army field medic—and far beyond. Facing relentless physical and emotional battles, including rare medical conditions and a life-changing battle with the VA system, Mindy lays bare the realities military women confront, on and off duty. She shares how running became both a literal and metaphorical escape, her path through advocacy, and why finding support networks is crucial for survival. Hear teasers from her books, “A Resilient Warrior” and the just-launched “A Dragon’s Voice,” plus her work with Feed My City. If you’re interested in trauma recovery, veteran resilience, or the hidden stories of women in the military, this emotional episode will leave you searching for more.

    Mindy Dougherty, is a US Army veteran. She is an epitome of a resilient warrior & has a warrior spirit that will capture your attention. The resiliency and strength she embodies while overcoming childhood abuse, PTSD, & more medical adversities than one could imagine will inspire you. Navigating a lifetime of trauma could leave a person bitter and hateful, but Mindy takes a completely different approach. She uses comedy, gratitude, and gardening to influence healing for herself and others. Mindy's garden, known as Feed My City, promotes healing, growth, and health for those who may be fighting their own battle for survival.

    Connect with Mindy Dougherty:

    📷 Instagram: @Wtrgpsy (Mindy Dougherty)

    📘 Facebook: Mindy Dougherty

    📖 A Resilient Warrior & A Dragons Voice – Available on Amazon

    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.

    45 min
  • Building Bridges from Combat to Inner Peace: A Veteran's Healing Journey -42

    Discover the compelling story of Sarah Moore in this episode of Dog Tag Diaries. From the cockpit of Blackhawk helicopters to the awe-inspiring peaks of the Himalayas, Sarah shares her transformative journey. How did a challenging military career, complete with its emotional and physical challenges, guide her towards founding Blue Side Adventures? Get a glimpse into her personal battles with PTSD, the breaking point that forced her to reevaluate her life, and her quest for mental and physical well-being. Her insights on the importance of mindfulness, community, and embracing change are sure to resonate with listeners seeking inspiration and courage in their own lives.

    Sarah Moore’s journey began with a call to serve after 9/11, leading to a distinguished 21-year career in the U.S. Army as an Aviation Officer flying UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and serving in senior leadership roles. She also spent over seven years in federal law enforcement, training officers and providing peer support. Behind her impressive service record, Sarah faced mounting physical and mental challenges that pushed her to embark on a personal journey of healing. Through deep study and deliberate action, she transformed her health and mindset. A pivotal expedition to Everest Base Camp in 2018 inspired her to found Blue Side Adventures, an organization dedicated to empowering fellow veterans and first responders through healing treks in the Himalayas. Now in its third year, her mission continues to help others reclaim their strength and build the lives they deserve.

    Connect with Sarah:

    Facebook - bluesideyoga

    Youtube - @blueside-adventures

    Website - Blue Side Adventures

    Get your free Warrior Mindset Workbook here: www.bluesideyoga.com/workbook

    Join her next adventure here: www.bluesideyoga.com/adventure

    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.

    46 min

About Dog Tag Diaries

From the publisher's feed

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.

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