Hearts & Stripes

Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone!!  Today we are talking about V for Valentine’s.  I’m sharing five things to keep in mind to strengthen your military marriage.  Our goal here at Hearts & Stripes podcast is to continue to provide resources and tools to keep your relationship thriving.  Keep in mind, it’s never too late to start getting intentional about your marriage.  Here are five Vs for Valentine’s.

Validate : Take the time to listen and validate your spouse.  A great technique to use to accomplish this is active listening.  Steps to active listening include listening, empathize, repeat what is shared, normalize their feelings with understanding and bonuses are being able to add body language, eye contact & touch. 

Vacation : Plan opportunities to getaway.  This may look like an actual trip, staycation or even a mental getaway.  It’s not about the dollar amount, but rather valuing the time spent together.  

Vow : Valentine's Day is known as a day of love.  Nothing says I love you like commitment and covenant.  Reflecting and reminding one another of the vows that you have taken is a beautiful way to connect/reconnect or hit the reset button on your relationship.

Value : Get intentional about showing your spouse that you value them.  A great way to do this is by using their love language.  Saying and showing your partner that they are valued is a great way to stay #milmarriagestrong

Victory : When you win, I win & we win!  It’s no surprise that we are all about celebration here at Hearts & Stripes.  Acknowledging the wins in your relationship is a tip that we absolutely love sharing.  It shifts your focus as a couple to positivity and progress, which can help keep the momentum going. 

Today's Heart Track : 

Happy Valentines Day by OutKast - “Love will rule supreme”

Listen to our Heart Tracks 3 playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3izcNRGc44G4rHt4qcJzUJ?si=eaef4f0267684ed0

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

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Here at Hearts & Stripes we know that connection is key and dating your spouse is a must do.  Today we will be sharing on an event that we don't want you to miss.  Military Marriage Day presents Military Date Night with Bill and Pam Farrel, Carol and Gene Kent & Megan and Keith Brown! On February 7th I’m ecstatic to have some of the most talented, Christ centered couples link arms with us and share in this vision with this date night.

Tune in to hear the marriage stories from Pam, Carol, Megan and I, plus join us for Military Date Night!  You can get your couples ticket for the live and/or enjoy access to the replay here: 

https://www.militarymarriageday.com/datenight

Connect with our speakers:

Bill and Pam Farrel

https://www.love-wise.com

Carol and Gene Kent

https://carolkent.org

https://www.speakupministries.com

Megan and Keith Brown

https://www.meganbbrown.com

Today's Heart Track : 

I'm Going To Love You Forever and Ever by Randy Travis

Listen to our Heart Tracks 3 playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3izcNRGc44G4rHt4qcJzUJ?si=eaef4f0267684ed0

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

We are wrapping up this Marriage & Leadership series!  Over the past few weeks we have heard from our Armed Forces leaders as each shares their marriage stories, lessons learned and advice for #milmarriage.  This series demonstrates that caring for our military families means that we care for our military marriages, which is a priority amongst our leaders.  Lean in as we have a heart to heart to gain lessons on love, marriage and leadership with those shaping our service branches for a better tomorrow.  

- Where did this series come from?

Military Marriage Day survey question.  See full report here: https://www.militarymarriageday.com/survey

- What are some great relationship resources our leaders have made available for us?

Military OneSource presents RElationship WEllness Summit

A total of 2,320 participants engaged in the webinar sessions during the RElationship WEllness Summit. Session attendance varied from 23 to 336 across the 21 sessions, with an average of 110 participants per session.

 Candid Conversations Others Aren't Having About Military Marriages (89 participants)

Watch the Full Session Here: https://download.militaryonesource.mil/12038/MCSP/Events/Relationship-Wellness-Summit/Day-Two-Opening-and-Candid-Conversations-Others-Aren't-Having-About-Military-Marriages.mp4

Watch the Full Military OneSource Relationship Wellness Summit Here:

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/family-relationships/relationships/keeping-your-relationship-strong/dod-hosts-relationship-wellness-summit/

- What is one way you can connect with your spouse?

Join us for our Military Date Night presented by Military Marriage Day: 

https://www.militarymarriageday.com/datenight

Key Takeaways:

• The Department of Defense is taking steps to support our service relationships through events, resources and messaging encouraging healthy relationships

Today's Heart Track : 

Doubt by Mary J. Blidge

Listen to our Heart Tracks 3 playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3izcNRGc44G4rHt4qcJzUJ?si=eaef4f0267684ed0

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

It’s a new year and we are coming in strong with the Marriage & Leadership series!  Over the next few weeks we will hear from our Armed Forces leaders as each shares their marriage stories, lessons learned and advice for #milmarriage.  This series demonstrates that caring for our military families means that we care for our military marriages, which is a priority amongst our leaders.  Lean in as we have a heart to heart to gain lessons on love, marriage and leadership with those shaping our service branches for a better tomorrow.  

Representing the Space Force we have Mrs. Mollie Raymond!

Bio

Mollie Raymond is the Spouse to the First Chief of Space Operations, United States Space Force.  Mrs Raymond is married to General John "Jay" Raymond, the first Chief of Space Operations, United States Space Force. Mollie has traveled all over the world as a military spouse and has moved 19 times during her time. She has long been a champion for military spouses and families working tirelessly to support them through promoting family engagements, building connections, and creating a sense of community. With the stand-up of the sixth and newest branch of the Armed Services, Mollie is humbled to serve alongside Jay during these historic times. Her focus will be to support and advocate for Space Families while upholding the Space Force’s worldwide necessity, heritage, and culture.

Top Points:

The MilMarriage Story 

From a church tour to a co-ed volleyball team, the Raymonds met and connected quickly based on having the same core values. After 5 months they were engaged to be married.  They had a long engagement in Grand Forks, North Dakota before a PCS took them to California.  That move was difficult for Mollie as her first time away from family.  She describes the transition as being very difficult.  In hindsight she learned the importance of working together and supporting one another through transition especially when it’s harder on one spouse more than another.

Mattrice’s Top Tips For Servant Leadership in Life & Marriage: 

• Respect what your spouse is saying.  Validate your partner's feelings and acknowledge what they are communicating to you.  This will help make your spouse feel understood and loved.

Marriage & Leadership Advice:

• Embrace opportunity.  You may not always succeed, but you learn and grow from them.  

Resources Recommendations:

Military One Source https://www.militaryonesource.mil/family-relationships/

Installation Chaplains (Contact your local office)

Today's Heart Track : 

Unanswered Prayers by Garth Brooks

Just the Way You Are by Billy Joel

The Older I Get by Alan Jackson

Listen to our Heart Tracks 3 playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3izcNRGc44G4rHt4qcJzUJ?si=eaef4f0267684ed0

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

It’s a new year and we are coming in strong with the Marriage & Leadership series! Over the next few weeks we will hear from our Armed Forces leaders as each shares their marriage stories, lessons learned and advice for #milmarriage. This series demonstrates that caring for our military families means that we care for our military marriages, which is a priority amongst our leaders. Lean in as we have a heart to heart to gain lessons on love, marriage and leadership with those shaping our service branches for a better tomorrow.

Representing the Marine Corps we have Mattrice Williamson!

Bio:

Mattrice Williamson is a Hospitality Director and Special Events Manager. She has spent nearly three decades leading, coaching, mentoring and supporting military families. Leading, learning, and legacy building is how Mattrice has chosen to journey through military life with her Marine. Mattrice’s personal and professional career path has afforded her the opportunity to work and serve with several non-profit organizations. Servant leadership is a lifestyle for Mattrice as she enjoys sharing her “TAGS” (Talent, Ability, Gift, and Skills) with others.

As a 27-year Marine Corps spouse and mother of three, Mattrice has had the opportunity to navigate through multiple deployments, relocations, career challenges and life changes. She has been inspired by mentors in her life to find her voice and tell her story; she encourages others to do the same. Her purpose and passion drive her to continue leading and motivating others to be ‘mission ready’ for whatever life brings. Living in Purpose on Purpose is their family motto.

Top Points:

- The MilMarriage Story Mattrice dated her husband to be through their college years and made the 2% club of Naval Academy couples to survive all four years. The couple met in church in the 90s and started as friends. She credits the strength of their relationship to their foundation of friendship and being great listeners. The Williamsons married in 1994.

Mattrice’s Top Tips For Servant Leadership in Life & Marriage:

- Understanding and mutual respect are key. Know and respect who each person is as individuals. She notes the importance of being committed to the relationship and the journey as you operate with understanding & mutual respect.

- Find mentorship. Seek it out and connect with others so you can ask, “will I survive this?”. Mattrice recalls that her mentors were in her life for a moment, but she soon became the mentor. Paying it forward is a part of being a leader.

- “You have seasons in your life. Those seasons come and go.” Mattrice learned to step back and edit her life as the seasons change. She asked herself, “Who was I between the leaves of the tree?” Introspection is key at all seasons.

- Mattrice’s husband encouraged her to stop looking for the mentor she felt she needed and step into being that mentor and pouring into others. Her philosophy of servant leadership is modeled as she presently supports and mentors spouses.

- As a Marine Corps spouse and mom she finds ways to connect with other people & families. As a family, the Williamsons are intentional about plugging in with Marine & Family Programs for orientations, programs and workshops. The more Mattrice learned and applied, the better she could connect by simply getting to know others. She became an advocate for our military resources, because she personally experienced loneliness in earlier years due to not knowing about what was available to her.

Marriage & Leadership Advice:

Resources are underutilized. When programs are not utilized they will go away as it’s seen as a waste of resources. “If you know something that has worked for you, share it!...Join the club.”- Mattrice Williamson

The responsibility is with each of us. You can be a leader right where you are by sharing the resources you are aware of.

Top Resources:

The Five Languages of Apology: How to Experience Healing in All Your Relationships by Dr. Gary Chapman & Jennifer Thomas https://www.amazon.com/Five-Languages-Apology-Experience-Relationships/dp/1881273571/ref=pd_sbs_1/135-3173583-2094259?pd_rd_w=cdsOt&pf_rd_p=0a3ad226-8a77-4898-9a99-63ffeb1aef90&pf_rd_r=CZF5G1Z0KJEWKCGZV29R&pd_rd_r=712c605f-77e8-4d7c-b682-2b72cf27b00b&pd_rd_wg=oUJo7&pd_rd_i=1881273571&psc=1

Today's Heart Track :

This is How We Do It by Montell Jordan

That’s The Way Love Goes by Janet Jackson

Listen to our Heart Tracks 3 playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3izcNRGc44G4rHt4qcJzUJ?si=eaef4f0267684ed0

Let's Connect:

Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

It’s a new year and we are coming in strong with the Marriage & Leadership series!  In the next few weeks we will hear from our Armed Forces leaders as each shares their marriage stories, lessons learned and advice for #milmarriage.  This series demonstrates that caring for our military families means that we care for our military marriages, which is a priority amogst our leaders.  Lean in as we have a heart to heart to gain lessons on love, marriage and leadership with those shaping our service branches for a better tomorrow.  

Kicking us off in true Air Force fashion is none other than, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass.

Bio

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass represents the highest enlisted level of leadership, and as such, provides direction for the enlisted force and represents their interests, as appropriate, to the American public and to those in all levels of government. She serves as the personal adviser to the Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale, and proper utilization and progress of more than 600,000 Total Force Airmen. Chief Bass is the 19th chief master sergeant appointed to the highest noncommissioned officer position.  

Chief is married to Rahn Bass, a retired Army First Sergeant.

Chief’s Top Points:

The MilMarriage Story 

They at Ft Bragg, NC NCO Club in June of 1993. Dated off and on for 3 years and recently celebrated 25 years of marriage.

“We don’t get caught up as much in the single day as we do cherishing everyday with one another.” - CMSAF Bass

Chief shares that they found their battle rhythm of being in a mil to mil relationship through trial & error.  They learned through error that they needed to prioritize time together.  “We get eyeball to eyeball and…put away all the devices.” - CMSAF Bass

Chief shares about having meaningful conversation with her spouse.  They are more meaningful about caring for their relationship today than they’ve ever been and appreciate individual time. “I just need you to listen and not fix things.” - CMSAF Bass 

Chief models how to allow your partner to mentally prepare for discussions by stating, “When you have time, I really need to talk to you about something, but it should take about 20 minutes of focused time.”  This allows them to come to the conversation prepared, as opposed to demanding to talk whenever only one individual is ready.

When asked, “How does your marriage impact your leadership?” Chief acknowledges the benefits of differencering personalities & learning from one another.  How the truth coming from your spouse is much needed and the, “marriage makes me a better person and a better Airman” - CMSAF Bass

• Big Advice: You should never treat others better than you treat your spouse/family.

Today's Heart Track : Endless Love - Diana Ross & Lynol Richie 

Listen to our Heart Tracks 3 playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3izcNRGc44G4rHt4qcJzUJ?si=eaef4f0267684ed0

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

Happy New Year Everyone! We are kicking off 2022 with a gratitude as I am thankful for this platform and for all of you who support it. Today I highlight some of the new things to come as well as what you can continue to hear on the podcasts.

What's New:

- Command Collective Community has launched and we start Q1 with some amazing women.

Join the waitlist here: https://www.breecarroll.com/community

- Hearts & Stripes podcast will take on a new look, but you have to see it on YouTube! Like & Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF7psa2nI0NpdI2HYwJ4qDA

What You Can Expect:

- Continue to focus on strengthening military marriages #milmarriagestrong

- All the latests and greatest on Military Marriage Day as this if the holiday's official podcast

- Great guests and practical advice on marriage, like the Marriage & Leadership series we'll kick off next week

Today's Heart Track : Level Up By Ciara

Listen to our Heart Tracks 3 playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3izcNRGc44G4rHt4qcJzUJ?si=eaef4f0267684ed0

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

Happy Holidays!  During this season of gratitude and joy we are going back and unwrapping the gems found in past episodes that we may need to listen to again before 2022.  Joining me for this Unwrap & Recap series is my guest co-host Juvilyn Garcia.  Juvilyn is the 2020-2021 Armed Forces Insurance MCRD San Diego Spouse of the Year & our Hearts & Stripes episode 50 guest that shared on effective communication in your marriage.

Today we are recapping episode 054 with Nate & Felicia Wells : Two Careers, One Family!

Bree’s Takeaways

• Joint spouse relationships or mil to mil is such a challenge.  I’m grateful to get a glimpse of this with my friends Nate & Felicia (we hooked them up btw, so you’re welcome) and shout out to Nate’s book of poetry.

Juvilyn’s Takeaways

• Loved how their stories of how they met were so different and it was super entertaining.  They are an extremely relatable couple.

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

What’s next in 2022 for Hearts & Stripes?!  Listen to the end and get a sneak peek at what’s to come.

LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMAND COLLECTIVE! Doors Close Jan 1st!

https://www.breecarroll.com/community

Listen to our Heart Tracks II playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6ymOG8ArepaBYgIqCe4vmisi=7cbbfc02b0484f67

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

Happy Holidays!  During this season of gratitude and joy we are going back and unwrapping the gems found in past episodes that we may need to listen to again before 2022.  Joining me for this Unwrap & Recap series is my guest co-host Juvilyn Garcia.  Juvilyn is the 2020-2021 Armed Forces Insurance MCRD San Diego Spouse of the Year & our Hearts & Stripes episode 50 guest that shared on effective communication in your marriage.

Today we are recapping episode 048 Patrice Washington Connected in Marriage & Purpose!

Bree’s Takeaways

• This was our season 2 opening episode with my coach & client Patrice Washington and I love that she said the foundation of their relationship is friendship

Juvilyn’s Takeaways

• As the 2020-2021 Armed Forces Insurance MCRD San Diego Spouse of the Year, this was our hardest duty station and it humbled me.  I didn’t realize how many people were watching and encouraged by my journey.  

Patrice Washington: https://patricewashington.com

Redefine Wealth For Yourself : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0985908068/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0985908068&linkCode=as2&tag=seekwisdompcw-20&linkId=c54ef34f4196f954503f34d01803909c

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBM9Hr617iNyqAbKPydkvMA

Command the Stage is available NOW: https://redefiningwealth.kartra.com/page/command-the-stage

LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMAND COLLECTIVE!

https://www.breecarroll.com/community

Listen to our Heart Tracks II playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6ymOG8ArepaBYgIqCe4vmisi=7cbbfc02b0484f67

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll

Happy Holidays!  During this season of gratitude and joy we are going back and unwrapping the gems found in past episodes that we may need to listen to again before 2022.  Joining me for this Unwrap & Recap series is my guest co-host Juvilyn Garcia.  Juvilyn is the 2020-2021 Armed Forces Insurance MCRD San Diego Spouse of the Year & our Hearts & Stripes episode 50 guest that shared on effective communication in your marriage.

Today we are recapping episode 056 Heather Campbell Fueling Your Life!

Bree’s Takeaways

• They allowed another couple to speak life into their marriage & accept the help of community at a time when she said “I didn’t sign up for babies in the arctic”  

Juvilyn’s Takeaways

• It’s easy to mask our issues in #milmarriage.  Not taking care of those issues makes it even more difficult along the way.  

Glory Nutrition:

https://www.instagram.com/glorynutrition/

https://bossladybio.com/heathercampbell/

LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMAND COLLECTIVE!

https://www.breecarroll.com/community

Listen to our Heart Tracks II playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6ymOG8ArepaBYgIqCe4vmisi=7cbbfc02b0484f67

Let's Connect: Join us in the Hearts & Stripes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartsstripes

To get even more on Hearts & Stripes podcast, resources, coaching and more head to https://www.breecarroll.com

Connects with Bree on IG https://www.instagram.com/itsbreecarroll

Connect with Bree on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/itsbreecarroll