In this powerful episode, Samantha sits down with Jae (a Canadian Armed Forces veteran, doula, and mom of four) to explore the layers of her motherhood journey. From delivering a son with congenital heart defects to advocating for military mothers and surviving her own health battles, Jae shares how she turned pain into purpose.

Together, they unpack:

• The trauma of NICU life and premature birth
• What it means to grieve while mothering
• Advocating for systemic change in military parenting policies
• Balancing personal healing with public advocacy
• How motherhood and pageantry became her unexpected platforms for empowerment

This is a story of resilience, identity, and fiercely loving your children, while fighting for a world that sees and supports mothers more fully. Whether you’re a military mom, NICU parent, survivor, or simply someone trying to do better for the next generation, Jae’s story will leave you seen, stirred, and supported.

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of child loss, NICU trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Please listen with care.