Dog Tag Diaries

In this inspiring episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we welcome Susan Davis, a remarkable army veteran and behavioral health clinician who has charted an extraordinary path from a small lumber town to becoming a passionate advocate for mental health in the military community. Discover how Susan navigated the challenges of basic training, overcame personal obstacles, and forged a new path in behavioral health. Her story offers a powerful message for women in the military and those transitioning to civilian life. Reflecting on themes of resilience, transformation, and determination, Susan's journey reveals the power of embracing one's story and breaking barriers. Whether you're in the service or seeking inspiration from real-life stories of triumph, this episode is a must-listen.

Susan Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) who has worked for the state of Oregon for nearly a decade. She began her clinical career in a forensic psychiatric facility and continues to enjoy working with that population. In her current role, Susan focuses on high-level behavioral health programming for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. Having lived in seven different states, she brings a diverse range of experiences—including a unique stint as a blackjack dealer in Las Vegas. Looking ahead, Susan plans to expand into equine therapy. Connect with Susan through LinkedIn- Susan Davis.

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 inspiring conversation as Dr. Maria Luque, an Air Force veteran, fitness expert, and menopause coach, joins host Kim on "Dog Tag Diaries." In this episode, listeners embark on Dr. Luque's journey from growing up in Germany to serving in the United States Air Force. She shares her unique perspective on the intricacies of military life, detailing both the challenges and joys she experienced during her seven-year service. Dr. Luque highlights the evolution of her career path from finance to fitness, revealing how she found her passion in transforming lives through health. If you're curious about how fitness can reshape the menopausal experience and what it means to embrace life with vitality, this episode promises to inspire and inform.

Dr. Maria Luque is an accomplished fitness expert, menopause coach, former health science professor, and proud Air Force veteran. With over two decades of experience, she is deeply committed to empowering menopausal women to become stronger, healthier, and embrace a life full of adventure. Holding an M.S. and Ph.D. in health sciences, as well as a range of certifications, including Certified Health Education Specialist, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, ACE Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and NASM Women's Fitness Specialist, she combines her expertise with a passion for transformation. Dr. Luque is the founder of Fitness in Menopause, a company dedicated to helping women navigate the challenges and rewards of midlife.

Conneect with Dr. Maria:

Instagram- @drmarialuque

LinkedIn- drmarialuque

Website- www.fitnessinmenopause.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.

In this compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, meet Lorrena Black, a retired U.S. Army Major whose life story is a testament to resilience and transformation. From a challenging childhood facing abusive dynamics to a 25-year military career, Lorrena has continually defied expectations. As she shares her journey from private to major, we uncover her battles with personal adversity, and how she turned these experiences into a mission to empower veterans. If you're interested in understanding the power of perseverance, the importance of finding purpose after military service, and the role of leadership, this episode is a must-listen. Discover Lorrena's insights on navigating life in uniform and beyond while championing causes close to her heart like veteran career development and children's welfare.

Lorrena Black is a retired U.S. Army Veteran and the Founder/CEO of She Served LLC. With a distinguished military career spanning 25 years, she rose from the rank of Private to Major, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. Now, she uses her expertise to empower veterans in finding their purpose and thriving after military service. A mother of four teenagers and a devoted community advocate, Lorrena holds advanced degrees in management and leadership and serves on the board of CATCH Charity for Children.

Connect with Lorrena:

• Website: www.sheserved.co
• LinkedIn: Lorrena Black

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 us in an inspiring episode featuring Felicia Flake, aka Coach Fab, a woman whose life journey describes resilience and transformation. From a childhood marked by constant change to making life-altering decisions, she shares her incredible experiences as an army veteran and American Ninja Warrior contestant. Discover the complexities of becoming a Purple Heart recipient and hear about the unique challenges and triumphs she faced as a woman in the military. Coach Fab's personal growth from failing military fitness tests to becoming a leading fitness coach is nothing short of motivational. If you’re considering a path in the military or seeking inspiration in your fitness journey, this episode will leave you empowered and enlightened.

Felicia Flake is a fitness expert, U.S. Combat Veteran, and two-time American Ninja Warrior who embodies resilience and strength. After serving five years in the Army and earning a Purple Heart for her bravery in Iraq, she found healing in fitness and now helps others achieve their health goals. Felicia’s journey took a heartbreaking turn when her daughter, Male'ah Believe Perry, passed away just nine hours after birth, but she channels her pain into purpose, inspiring others to find their own strength.

Now based in Slidell, Louisiana, Felicia owns a fitness studio with her husband, Max, where she designs individualized workouts to help clients navigate busy lives while staying active. With her unstoppable motivation and personal approach, she ensures everyone she trains is set up for success. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build strength, or transform your mindset, Felicia will push you toward your goals—one sweat session at a time.

Connect with Felicia:

• Website: www.feliciaflake.com
• Facebook: Felicia Flake
• Instagram: @coachfab1

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Soulfit ebook
• American Ninja Warrior

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 us in this captivating episode of Dog Tag Diaries as Elizabeth Estabrooks opens up about her gripping memoir and national book tour. This episode continues the powerful conversation from Episode 36 so if you haven’t listened to that yet, we recommend starting there for full context. Elizabeth shares the meaning of resilience and resourcefulness through her own experiences and the collective stories of women who have faced violence. With moments that will make you reflect, this episode explores the emotional journeys of military women, the impact of trauma, and the strength of the supportive community that surrounds them.

Liz Estabrooks is a U.S. Army veteran, author, and advocate dedicated to supporting survivors and championing the needs of women veterans. Her book, Broken in the Stronger Places: From Resilience to Resourcefulness, sheds light on overcoming adversity and finding purpose in the face of hardship.

How You Can Support Elizabeth’s Mission

For listeners interested in supporting Liz on her cross-country book tour, please reference the show notes from Episode 36. There, you'll find details on how to host a book signing, send care packages, or offer emotional support.

Contact Liz: [email protected]

Visit her page: www.awomansvoicepress.com

Let’s rally around this incredible Army veteran who has dedicated her life to supporting survivors and advocating for women 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.

This week on Dog Tag Diaries Captain Kim engages with the remarkable Elizabeth Estabrooks, who opens up about her transformative work as a women veterans' advocate and the personal experiences that fueled her passion. Elizabeth's discussion about her upcoming book, Broken in the Stronger Places: From Resilience to Resourcefulness, offers an enlightening perspective on resilience, resourcefulness, and the true stories of women who served. Through candid conversations, they explore the challenges of gender bias, the culture of silence, and the urgent need for policy changes within military structures. Get ready for an insightful journey through Elizabeth's eye-opening stories that challenge the status quo.

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.

Help Launch Liz Estabrooks’ Book Tour with Love and Support  

Call to Action for All Military Women, 

We’re reaching out to all the incredible military women listening to Dog Tag Diaries.  It’s our time to rally around one of our own—Liz Estabrooks—as she embarks on her cross-country book tour for her upcoming memoir, Broken in the Stronger Places: From Resilience to Resourcefulness. 

Liz is a force of compassion, leadership, and change. A U.S. Army veteran, former Deputy Director at the VA Center for Women Veterans, and the visionary behind the I Am Not Invisible campaign, Liz has dedicated her life to supporting survivors of personal violence and advocating for women veterans. Now, it’s our turn to support her as she shares her powerful story with the world.

We’re calling on YOU to help make this tour unforgettable. If you’re interested in helping launch this journey reach out directly at [email protected] -Here’s what you can do:

1. Host a Book Signing – Do you have a space or know someone who could host a stop on her tour? Let’s help her connect with as many readers as possible!
2. Send a Care Package – Show Liz some love with snacks, comfort items, gas cards or words of encouragement for the road.
3. Offer Emotional Support – Reach out with messages of encouragement, check-ins, or just let her know you’re cheering her on.

Connect with Liz:

Website - www.awomansvoicepress.com

LinkedIn - elizabethaestabrooks

Medium - @ElizabethEstabrooks

Let’s send Liz off with the same love, strength, and support as Dog Tag Diaries is all about. Together, we can help her amplify her message and continue making a difference for survivors and veterans everywhere.

With gratitude, Dog Tag Diaries Team

Discover the incredible journey of Kim Henry on this episode of Dog Tag Diaries. As a Navy veteran and licensed social worker, Kim shares her experiences navigating life with non-visible disabilities, raising her adopted daughters, and the pivotal moments that shaped her advocacy work. Hear about her challenges in the military, including the harsh realities of sexual harassment and the fight for systemic reform. With vulnerability and strength, Kim sheds light on her personal growth and the role of her service dog, Daisy, in supporting her mission. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in advocacy, military life, and the power of perseverance.

Kim Henry is a Military Coordinated Community Response Program Manager, Founder of The GOLD Beacon, and Author. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), U.S. Navy Veteran, and former U.S. Air Force Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Specialist with over 14 years of experience in military and public health settings. With a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California, she specializes in policy development and program enhancements to support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. At the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA), Kim provides training and technical assistance to legal professionals and victim advocates, strengthening community responses for military-connected survivors. She also teaches social work policy at Simmons University and advocates for disability rights and reducing mental health stigma among disabled veterans, drawing from her own experience as a female veteran with non-visible disabilities who uses a service dog.

Resources & Links:

• The GOLD Beacon
• Kim Henry on LinkedIn
• Gold Beacon on Facebook

Books by Kim Henry:

• Warrior's Path to Healing: A 12-Week Empowerment Journal for Women Veterans
• Warrior's Path to Healing: A 12-Week Empowerment Journal for Survivors of Violence

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 us on Dog Tag Diaries as we explore the remarkable journey of Charlie Hudson, a retired lieutenant colonel in the United States Army and renowned author. From her early roots in a small Southern town to becoming a pioneering force for women in the military, Charlie’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and tenacity. Discover how she navigated through uncharted territories, faced with skepticism and challenges, to rise as a trailblazer in predominantly male-dominated environments. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into adaptability, reinvention, and pursuing your passion against all odds. Tune in to hear about her unexpected transition from military life to a flourishing career as an author and the profound lessons she learned along the way.

Charlie Hudson, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and acclaimed author, has been praised by USA Today as a writer people should know. A 22-year military veteran, she was an “inadvertent pioneer,” breaking barriers as the first female officer in multiple key roles. Her diverse body of work spans over a dozen novels, including two scuba-themed mystery series featuring strong female leads, a cozy quilting-themed series, and stand-alone novels set across the globe. In nonfiction, she shares insights on parenting, travel, and aging. Now settled in South Florida with her husband, she enjoys scuba diving and continues to write.

Resources & Links:

• Charlie Hudson’s Website
• Books by Charlie Hudson
• X (formerly Twitter)
• Facebook Page

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 the captivating world of Annie Morgan, a trailblazing former Air Force JAG officer whose journey from rural Pennsylvania to representing high-value detainees at Guantanamo Bay will leave you inspired. In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Annie shares her unique perspective on balancing her passion for justice and her roles as a twin mom and adjunct professor. Join Captain Kim as she explores Annie's experiences defending airmen and navigating the intricacies of criminal justice. Hear her powerful stories, and uncover the profound impact her military upbringing and commitment to community have had on her life and career. Don't miss this insightful episode that sheds light on the resilience and dedication required for military service.

Annie Morgan Twin Mom, Adjunct Professor and a Senior Military Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, bringing over fourteen years of expertise in military and national security law. Her distinguished career spans roles at the Department of Defense, Department of Treasury, and most notably as a Defense Attorney within the Military Commissions Defense Organization, where she represented the alleged USS Cole bombing mastermind and made history with her examination of the CIA's torture program architect. A former U.S. Air Force JAG Corps officer, Ms. Morgan has shaped military law through several landmark cases and currently serves as a non-resident expert at the Eisenhower Institute and an adjunct professor at Gettysburg College. She holds an LL.M. in National Security Law from Georgetown University Law Center and a J.D. from George Washington University School of Law. Learn more: Law Offices of David P. Sheldon PLLC

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 us on Dog Tag Diaries as Kim sits down with Alejandra Hernandez, a Marine Corps veteran whose story is a powerful testament to resilience and authenticity. In this episode, Alejandra reflects on her challenging childhood, serving during the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" era, and the pivotal role that cooking played in her military life. Discover how Ale navigated the complexities of her sexuality and the obstacles she faced, including harassment and relationship difficulties, all while maintaining honor and commitment. She also shares her journey toward personal healing and her impactful work with The Road Home Program, which offers free mental health care to veterans and their families. Don't miss Ale's inspiring advice for current and aspiring military women.

Alejandra Hernandez is a Marine Corps veteran, outdoor enthusiast, and advocate for veterans. Serving during 2005-2009, the don’t ask don’t tell era, she gained invaluable skills and experiences that continue to shape her life. Today, Alejandra channels her passion into helping fellow veterans through The Road Home Program, which provides care and resources for those navigating the challenges that come from military life. When she’s not working, Alejandra enjoys bouldering, top rope climbing, snorkeling, and traveling.

Connect with Alejandra:

• LinkedIn: Alejandra Hernandez
• Learn More About The Road Home Program: theroadhomeprogram.org

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.