Hearts & Stripes

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.

Bree’s Takeaways

• Sandra is my biz bestie (hey girl hey - Queens, Connecticut & Jersey), I’ll be speaking at her Funnel Building Retreat in February!  

Juvilyn’s Takeaways

• Your spouse has to be complementary.  I’m successful in my small business because my spouse has my back. 

Your Milspouse Owned Business Hosts:

Bree - Owner of B Carroll Events, LLC https://www.breecarroll.com

Juvilyn - Ziya https://www.myzyia.com/zyiawithjuju 

Sandra Ocasio - https://sandraocasio.com

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.

Bree’s Takeaways 

- I really enjoyed doing the marriage & faith series, episodes 87-91.

- Beth Runkleof Cru Military was so transparent about her initial bitterness & even said she “hated” the military lifestyle so it’s great to hear how her heart was changed through bible studies and marriage conferences to not just draw closer to her spouse but also our military community.

- I will try to host a small group study on marriage. When you have to lead, you learn more.

Juvilyn’s Takeaways

- Marriage is sacrificial. We don’t know what we sign up for, but putting your faith first makes all the difference.

-  The joint calling.  It was huge that she saw that they were called to do this work together as often we talk on individual calling.

We Hope You Had A Happy Thanksgiving! 

Cru Military: https://crumilitary.org

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

We did it! We made it through year 2 of Hearts & Stripes podcast. Thank you for your support! We would love you to leave a review and share what you think about Hearst & Stripes.

Today we are diving into our Marriage Year End Review or a marriage audit! This is the time of year that we are reviewing to see how well we are doing and I wanted to encourage you to do the same thing within your relationship.  In Episode 53 we did a Marriage Progress Report (MPR). This year we are doing a three step audit.

#1 Acknowledgement - Think through this past year and think about the great moments you had and areas where you’ve grown together.

#2 Improvements - What are some areas in your military marriage that you believe you can do better in?

#3 Impact - In what ways does your marriage impact your family, community, friends, unit and other areas of your life?

EP053 Marriage Year End Review: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-8trmc-f69728

DON'T FORGET:

TAKE THE 2021 MILITARY MARRIAGE SURVEY https://www.militarymarriageday.com/survey

SIGN UP TO DO THE MILITARY MARRIAGE STUDY https://www.militarymarriageday.com/survey

Disclaimer: Thoughts and opinions shared within this episode are not that of the Department of Defense or the Armed Forces. 

Today's Heart Track: Remember The Time by Michael Jackson

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

Let’s talk numbers! Today we are going over the 2020 Military Marriage Survey Comprehensive Report, which was conducted in October of 2020. The report was released on August 14, 2021, Military Marriage Day and in this episode we are highlighting its findings.

Our 2020 Marriage Survey Questions:

1. Years Married

2. Branch

3. Officer or Enlisted

4. Race

5. How would you describe your marriage during active duty, reserve or guard service?

6. How would you describe marriage resources you’ve utilized during active duty, reserve or guard service?

7. Name the marriage resources you’ve used. (Program, counseling, book, etc.)

8. Do you feel like your marriage is/was valued by military leadership?

9. Do you believe military life plays a major role in the success or challenges within your marriage?

10. Do you believe your personal fulfillment or achievement impacts your marriage?

11. Do you feel personally fulfilled or accomplished?

12. Why or why not?

13. Have you consistently worked through your marriage?

14. Was your work status by choice or impacted by military life?

15. What was the biggest factor that impacted your marriage positively?

16. What was the biggest factor that impacted your marriage negatively?

17. What do you and your spouse argue mostly about?

18. What is one thing that is missing from marriage resources?

19. How has COVID-19 impacted your marriage?

20. I feel confident in the future of my marriage.

21. Finish this statement: Military Marriage is important because…

Takeaways:

- The 2020 Military Marriage Survey had a range of participants from 0 - 15+ years and representation from each branch although the majority were Air Force.

- When asked to describe their military marriage 65.4% fell in the desired range, yet 34.6% fell in the undesired range

- Resources other couples have used: support groups, programs & retreats, counseling & therapy, books & content, and faith.

- Only 28.9% said YES to feel like your marriage is/was valued by military leadership

- Personal fulfillment is directly tied to marriage fulfillment

- Top 3 negative impacts to military marriage were separation, work and lack of communication.

TAKE THE 2021 MILITARY MARRIAGE SURVEY https://www.militarymarriageday.com/survey

SIGN UP TO DO THE MILITARY MARRIAGE STUDY https://www.militarymarriageday.com/survey

Join me as I moderate the Relationship Wellness Summit 2021, Candid Conversations Others Aren’t Having About Military Marriages, which will be November 17th at 11 AM. REGISTER HERE: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/family-relationships/relationships/keeping-your-relationship-strong/dod-hosts-relationship-wellness-summit/?fbclid=IwAR25AFqVBMg-GtcysvidbIYEtHqPJEPt-2paISPvAmhpsGL_CVYe5WhVM14

Pillar Deployment Retreat November 12-14th

REPLAYS HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/845615362969983

Disclaimer: Thoughts and opinions shared within this episode are not that of the Department of Defense or the Armed Forces. 

Today's Heart Track: Best of Me Song by Anthony Hamilton

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

Welcome to my PCS Journey! This is the final week of this series of us sharing our moving tips to stay #milmarriagestrong as we did a full DITY from North Dakota to Louisiana. Be sure to subscribe to the my YouTube Channel to catch all of the action and behind the scenes footage.

Subscribe HERE

Outserving is Contagous:

1. The kids helped with the move so we treated them to ice cream and the girls recieved mini mani, pedis while we stayed in Billeting/TLF.

2. My squadron, 5 CES, made me feel extremely supported as we navigated our move so I was intentional about writing each of them a farewell letter and gifting them WarBull Name Tapes.

3. My spouses squadron, 69 BS, took on the heavy lifting to help move us out so we treated them to a round on us. BONUS: The squadron CC out served us by sending a letter to my husbands parents saying how grateful he was to have had him in the squardon!!

4. Our Shreveport/Bossier family helped us prep the house and off load the truck so we had a Wing Stop family night. We will continue to try to out serve them throughout our time at this location, because thats what family does.

5. My spouse & I outserved one another by doing a post PCS trip to Las Vegas where we enjoyed shopping, beautiful dinners and kid free time together to rejuvinate.

Pro Tip: Plan a post PCS activity or vacation to reconnect.

Disclaimer: Thoughts and opinions shared within this episode are not that of the Department of Defense or the Armed Forces. 

I do not own the rights to the music segment found within this episode.  All rights reserved to artist & label for :

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

Welcome to my PCS Journey! For the next few weeks I will be sharing our moving tips to stay #milmarriagestrong as we did a full DITY from North Dakota to Louisiana. Be sure to subscribe to the my YouTube Channel to catch all of the action and behind the scenes footage.

Subscribe HERE

Married & Moving Part 4 Top Tips:

I'm sharing the experience of my (singular) family experience as we PCS and the important conversations that came up within our relationship.  My individual perspective is not speaking on behalf of all minorities.  

Disclaimer: Thoughts and opinions shared within this episode are not that of the Department of Defense or the Armed Forces. 

1. Create a Safe Travel Plan (this may mean different things to each family)

2. Invest in a travel potty (especially if traveling with littles)

3. Pack snacks to fuel the family or to simply add some joy along the way

Note: To see all of the baby steps head to daveramsey.com & comment below (or DM me) if you’d like details on Financial Peace University (FREE For Military)

#ads

Potty Link https://amzn.to/2ZxzRAV

Trash Bags https://amzn.to/3CtggRk

Snacks https://amzn.to/3Gygs48

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

Welcome to my PCS Journey! For the next few weeks I will be sharing our moving tips to stay #milmarriagestrong as we did a full DITY from North Dakota to Louisiana. Be sure to subscribe to the my YouTube Channel to catch all of the action and behind the scenes footage.

Subscribe HERE

Married & Moving Part 3 Top Tips:

Our PCS Financial Plan

1. Complete Dave Ramsey’s First 3 Baby Steps! (Accomplished in 2021)

Baby Step 1 - Save $1,000 As A Starter Emergency Fund

Baby Step 2 - Pay All Debt Smallest to Largest (Accept Mortgage If Applicable)

Baby Step 3 - Increase Savings To Cover 3-6 Months Of Household Expenses

• Note: To see all of the baby steps head to daveramsey.com & comment below if you’d like details on Financial Peace University (FREE For Military)

2. Utilize Emergency/Opportunity Fund Money To Cash Flow Expenses

3. Put Back Cash Flow Expenses Total in Emergency/Opportunity Fund

4. Utilize A Portion of Your Net Cash For A Post Move Treat/Trip!

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

Welcome to my PCS Journey! For the next few weeks I will be sharing our moving tips to stay #milmarriagestrong as we did a full DITY from North Dakota to Louisiana. Be sure to subscribe to the my YouTube Channel to catch all of the action and behind the scenes footage.

Subscribe HERE

Married & Moving Part 2 Top Tips:

- Ask For Help!

1. Ask the unit you are leaving AND joining. This is a great way to get support, say farewell and meet your new community.

2. Ask family readiness. They may have a list of support organizations that can help you transition.

3. Ask the church. If you find a church that you are interested in connecting with, reach out. You'll be surprised to see that they are willing to help you move, bring a meal and introduce you to others in the community.

4. Ask family! Share the effort with your imediate family member and let them feel a part of the move. Make it a reunion and see if other family members are willing to help you move and join the adventure with you.

5. Ask local organizations. If you are in a professional, social or service organization that has a local chapter, reaching out to them to get support on your move can be a huge plus.

Pro Tip! Save on moving materials by use Ziploc bags when packing small items: 

Ziploc 347 Variety Total Bags, 347 Pack, Piece Assortment, clear #Ad

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

Welcome to my PCS Journey! For the next few weeks I will be sharing our moving tips to stay #milmarriagestrong as we did a full DITY from North Dakota to Louisiana. Be sure to subscribe to the my YouTube Channel to catch all of the action and behind the scenes footage.

Subscribe HERE

Married & Moving Part 1 Top Tips:

- Effective Communicate Is Key

Effective Communication: Effective communication is defined as verbal speech or other methods of relaying information that get a point across.It also means you are able to listen, understand, and take action on what your spouse is saying.

- How To Survive The Purge

Purge Tip 1: Ask Before You Purge - Give your spouse the opportunity to opt in or out of the purging process. They may appreciate the help and give you full reign or choose to not purge at all. Listen - Understand - Act accordingly

Purge Tip 2: Discuss Your Options - If you have the time a yard sale or resale site is great. Your partner may not want to sell certain items or may choose to be involved in the sale as they are personally connected to it. If time doesn't permit, try to look into options like curb alert, donations to shelters, or Good Will.

Purge Tip 3: Eat it! Plan to dine in and each out of the fridge and freezer to reduce throwing out tons of food. A neighbor may be willing to take some things so communicate a plan with them to help take your perishable items. Give yourself grace throughout & eat out as needed to reduce stress & boost moral within your relationships.

- The Only Right Way Is The One You Agree On

The goal is to PCS and still like one another. Purge it all, pack it all or anythin in between! Get on the same page with whatever you decide and priorities your relationship over any one process.

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

We are on the final week of our Faith & Marriage Series here on Hearts & Stripes podcast.  In this episode I share how prayer can impact you thriving personally, in your marriage and with your legacy.  I even get transparent with sharing my prayer for marriages as it aligns with the God's picture of marriage that is outlined in the Word.  Yup, I was super nervous about sharing a prayer on the podcast, but if it blesses just one person then it was totally worth the knot in my stomach and momentary discomfort.

Top Takeaways:

1. Establish a prayer practice and faith relationship for yourself

Prayer For Marriage:

My prayer for marriage is that we would each see marriage as another gift. An opportunity to draw nearer to God in His mission to be glorified and point others toward Himself. That we would embrace the chance to be sanctified, becoming more like Christ, because of the differences and challenges with our spouse. Growing our dependence on and likeness  of Jesus every day. I pray our marriages would be so bizarrely unified (not perfect), fresh, and partnered with both our eyes on Christ that the world is drawn to ask "what are you looking at?" So that we, as 2 made 1, can reply with honor regarding the good news that brought us peace and core reason for our hope and ability to truly love one another.

Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 3:15 and 1 John 4:19

Thank you Crystal for submitting this prayer!  Be sure to connect with her.

IG:  @crystalcnvrstnsllc 

FB:  Crystal McFadden, LPC - Resiliency Communicator 

Full name:  Crystal McFadden, LPC

Bree’s Prayer Scripture References:

Ephesians 4:2-3

Colossians 3:14

Ecclesiastes 4:9

Ephesians 5:25-33

Access a full list of Military Marriage resources  visit https://www.militarymarriageday.com/resources

For more on Military Marriage Day, survey information and the Military Marriage Resource Hub visit: https://www.militarymarriageday.com

IG

https://www.instagram.com/militarymarriageday/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/militarymarriageday

Today's Heart Track

Great Are You Lord by All Sons & Daughters

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