Navigating Military Marriage: A Conversation with Ashley Ashcroft

In this episode of 'Ruckup Buttercup,' the host Ashley discusses the complexities of military marriage with guest Ashley Ashcroft, a seasoned military spouse, accredited national educator, homeschool mom, and Down Syndrome advocate. Ashley Ashcroft shares her personal experiences, including facing unexpected trials and becoming a published author with her book 'Mission Ready Marriage.' The conversation touches on themes of resilience, community support, and the importance of faith and purpose in sustaining a strong military marriage. Key points include dealing with trauma, finding purpose, and leveraging community resources for a fulfilling life. Ashley also offers practical advice for new and seasoned military spouses alike.

00:00 Introduction and Season Finale Announcement

00:18 Introducing Our Guest: Ashley Ashcroft

02:45 Military Life and Trauma

05:03 Mission Ready Marriage: Inspiration and Impact

09:12 Challenges of Reintegration and PTSD

21:30 Finding Purpose and Community

29:01 Understanding Love Languages in Military Marriages

29:38 The Importance of Military Spouse Retreats

31:21 Financial Challenges Faced by Military Families

34:16 The Impact of Frequent Moves on Military Families

38:05 Building Community and Support Networks

44:53 Faith and Unexpected Trials

50:46 Advice for New Military Spouses

56:20 Conclusion and Resources

More Information on Ashley Ashcroft

Visit Ashley's Website | Buy the Book | Connect on FB | Connect on IG

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Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

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Email: [email protected]

Spooky Season: Haunted Military Installations and Eerie Legends

In this episode of Ruckup Buttercup, the hosts dive into the spooky vibes of October by discussing haunted military installations and eerie legends associated with them. Originally set to feature a guest, the episode continues with tales of paranormal encounters and personal stories from various military posts. The conversation covers historical sites such as Fort Leavenworth, Fort Bragg, and Fort Benning, weaving in stories of ghosts, myths, and legends that have emerged from these locations. The hosts also share their fascination with spooky seasons and paranormal experiences, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and well-known legends to set the tone for Halloween.

00:00 Welcome to Spooky Season

00:31 Haunted Military Installations

02:48 Fort Leavenworth: The Most Haunted Post

03:50 Ghost Stories from Fort Bragg and Fort Benning

06:55 Haunted Houses and Personal Experiences

13:38 Theories and Beliefs on Hauntings

23:07 Haunted Military Installations

24:24 Personal Ghost Stories

26:31 Exploring Haunted Locations

27:14 Ghost Tours and Historical Sites

29:52 Spooky TV Shows and Movies

39:28 Halloween Decorations and Traditions

42:08 Conclusion and Fall Season Greetings

Healing Heroes: How Soldier's Best Friend is Saving Lives with Service Dogs

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, we spotlight Soldier's Best Friend, an Arizona-based nonprofit that pairs veterans with PTSD or traumatic brain injury (TBI) with rescue dogs trained to be service dogs. Executive Director Mik Milem shares his passion for the organization and its mission, explaining the selection and training process for the dogs.

We discuss the transformative impact these service dogs have on veterans' lives, reinstating their sense of purpose and community. The conversation also touches on the organization's unique prison dog training program and various ways listeners can get involved, including fostering dogs and donating. Mick underscores the importance of referring veterans in need and assures listeners that similar programs are available across the country.

The episode provides valuable insights into how these loyal companions help save lives and highlights the organization's commitment to expanding its reach and facilities.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:00 Mission of Soldier's Best Friend

01:41 Training Process and Dog Selection

03:14 Impact on Veterans and Families

12:18 Eligibility and Referrals

15:34 Nonprofit Operations and Funding

16:16 Program Costs and Community Support

17:50 The Importance of Community for Veterans

19:10 Statewide Training Facilities

20:28 Expansion Plans and Prison Dog Training Program

24:40 Success Stories and Impact

30:12 How to Get Involved and Final Thoughts

Find more information about Soldier’s Best Friend Here: https://soldiersbestfriend.org/

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Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

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Email: [email protected]

Empowering Military Families with Financial Literacy: Insights from Moneybox Academy

In this episode of 'Ruck Up Buttercup,' Ashley and Sabrina are joined by financial expert Crystal McLean, founder of Moneybox Academy, to discuss the importance of financial literacy, especially within the military community.

Crystal shares her personal journey that led to the creation of her intergenerational nonprofit, which aims to infuse financial intelligence into communities from kindergarten to seniors, including veterans and active duty members.

The conversation covers the essential components of managing personal finances, including budgeting, debt management, value-based spending, and the significance of preparing for financial transitions like PCS moves.

Additionally, they discuss the importance of incorporating financial education at multiple levels—from individual soldiers to families—and the positive impact it can have on mental health and community stability.

The episode wraps up with practical tips for setting up and maintaining a budget, celebrating financial milestones, and the critical need for financial planning in retirement and military transitions.

Crystal emphasizes the availability of professional support and resources, encouraging listeners to seek help when needed, and highlights Moneybox Academy's upcoming one-on-one counseling services. Practical advice, personal stories, and actionable steps make this episode a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their financial well-being.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:30 Crystal McLean's Financial Journey

01:29 Teaching Financial Literacy to Kids

02:19 Simulation Event Insights

03:45 The Importance of Financial Education

07:10 Challenges of Military Families

08:11 Financial Advocacy and Systemic Issues

15:49 Budgeting Tips for Military Families

24:28 Setting Up a Budget

30:54 Adjusting Budgets for Travel

32:10 Collaborative Budgeting Tools

32:35 Importance of Financial Communication

38:30 Value-Based Budgeting

44:36 Debt Management Strategies

49:58 Planning for Retirement

56:04 Resources and Support

58:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Find more information about Crystal and MoneyBox Academy here:

Crystal D. McLean

Founder and President

Money Box Academy Inc.

www.moneyboxacademy.org

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Fall Cozy Time and Moving Adventures with Ashley and Sabrina

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, Ashley and Sabrina engage in a cozy girl chat as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of fall. They share their love for fall activities like hiking, reading, and spending time in cozy sweatshirts.

They also discuss recent family escapades, including a cold surprise at a North Carolina lake. Sabrina talks about her excitement to decorate her new home for Halloween and Christmas, while Ashley prepares for yet another move due to her husband's military duties.

They delve into the practical and emotional aspects of moving, including the challenges of setting up utilities, changing addresses, and organizing household goods. The conversation also touches on homeschooling, managing kids' education during moves, and finding joy in routine activities.

They highlight the importance of creating cherished family memories and traditions, especially during the fall season. The episode concludes with tips on managing holiday stress, setting personal goals, and finding joy in simple pleasures.

00:00 Welcome and Fall Excitement

00:44 Cozy Fall Activities

02:22 Holiday Decorations and Traditions

05:14 Moving and Settling In

18:25 Homeschooling and School Transitions

32:31 Military Life and Deployments

40:43 The Challenges of Maintaining Friendships

42:08 Excitement for Upcoming Events

43:53 Bonding Over Hobbies and Interests

47:43 Fall Activities and Family Time

50:59 Reading and Book Recommendations

01:07:35 Setting Boundaries and Enjoying Holidays

01:13:30 Embracing Joy and Personal Happiness

01:16:34 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

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Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Navigating Military Spouse Life: Myths and Realities

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, the hosts engage in a girl chat about the common stereotypes and myths associated with being a military spouse.

Key topics include the higher likelihood of divorce among military families, stressors such as shift work and deployments, the perceived infidelity within military marriages, financial insecurity, the misconception that military spouses don't work or have ambition, and the importance of having a support system.

The discussion emphasizes the significant impact of communication, grace, and setting boundaries for a successful military marriage. The hosts also share personal experiences and advice for both new and seasoned military spouses.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:25 Debunking the Myth: Military Marriages Don't Last

04:22 The Mental Load and Stressors of Military Life

11:02 Infidelity in Military Marriages: Myth vs. Reality

18:20 Marriage for Benefits: The Real Story

24:41 Financial Struggles of Military Families

40:44 The Ambition and Challenges of Military Spouses

48:36 Navigating Military Spouse Support Systems

49:14 The Reality of Finding Support

50:40 Building Connections and Community

52:55 Challenges of Military Life

01:02:19 The Myth of the Perfect Homecoming

01:14:44 Understanding Military Life Expectations

01:33:09 The Importance of Communication and Grace

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

This Episode is sponsored by Ruth Anne Kramer the author of You Belong: The Guidebook for the Career-Minded Woman on the Move Ruth Anne openly shares her experiences of being questioned by others, being overlooked because of her differences, and not always being taken seriously as a woman in the workplace.

Purchase her book here: https://tactical16.com/product/you-belong-a-guidebook-for-the-career-minded-woman/

Homeschooling for Military Families: Navigating Education On the Move

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, the hosts discuss various schooling options available for military families, particularly focusing on the benefits of homeschooling. They explore personal experiences and address common challenges such as frequent relocations and the socialization of homeschooled children. The hosts provide insights on creating customized curriculums, utilizing available resources through the DOD, and ensuring continuous education despite transitions. They also tackle misconceptions and offer practical advice for parents considering or already engaging in homeschooling, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and individualized learning.

00:00 Introduction and Schooling Options for Military Families

00:43 Challenges of Military Kids in Public Schools

02:34 Personal Experiences with School Transitions

04:00 Homeschooling as a Solution

14:16 Navigating IEPs and 504 Plans

18:32 Benefits and Flexibility of Homeschooling

26:06 Choosing the Right Homeschool Curriculum

29:18 Making Homeschooling Fun and Effective

32:24 Balancing Homeschooling with Military Life

38:30 Adapting Homeschooling to Family Needs

44:47 Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling: The Transition

46:26 Socialization Concerns in Homeschooling

49:53 Homeschooling Curriculum and Teaching Methods

55:43 Addressing Health and Sex Education in Homeschooling

01:00:19 Challenges and Benefits of Homeschooling

01:13:19 Homeschooling Resources and Support for Military Families

01:18:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Homeschooling

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

This Episode is sponsored by Ruth Anne Kramer the author of You Belong: The Guidebook for the Career-Minded Woman on the Move Ruth Anne openly shares her experiences of being questioned by others, being overlooked because of her differences, and not always being taken seriously as a woman in the workplace.

Purchase her book here: https://tactical16.com/product/you-belong-a-guidebook-for-the-career-minded-woman/

Navigating Military Life: Challenges, Growth, and Identity

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, the hosts have an engaging discussion with Reyna Worthy, a Navy wife and advocate for military spouses, who also hosts her own podcast. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being a military spouse, touching on topics such as changes in identity, career aspirations, emotional and mental shifts, maintaining relationships, and self-care. The conversation underscores the importance of community, adaptability, and self-advocacy for military spouses.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:33 Reyna's Background and Advocacy

02:17 Identity Changes as a Military Spouse

03:38 Career Challenges and Adaptability

14:12 Self-Advocacy and Speaking Up

23:56 Marriage and Relationship Dynamics

30:37 Making a Rental Feel Like Home

31:02 Benefits of VA Loans

32:35 Friendships and Moving

35:49 Building Connections in New Places

43:46 Family Dynamics and Expectations

54:23 Self-Care and Coping Strategies

01:00:42 Final Thoughts and Advice

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Reach Reyna Worthy: [email protected]

Website: www.deskofanavywife.com

This Episode is sponsored by Ruth Anne Kramer the author of You Belong: The Guidebook for the Career-Minded Woman on the Move Ruth Anne openly shares her experiences of being questioned by others, being overlooked because of her differences, and not always being taken seriously as a woman in the workplace.

Purchase her book here: https://tactical16.com/product/you-belong-a-guidebook-for-the-career-minded-woman/

This episode offers invaluable insights for military spouses, veterans, and anyone interested in enhancing their situational awareness.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

01:02 Bart Womack's Military Journey

03:07 Untold Stories and Advocacy

06:36 The Attack at Camp Pennsylvania

17:49 Capturing the Perpetrator

25:13 Reflections and Lessons Learned

35:03 Grieving and Mental Preparedness

36:14 Situational Awareness and Missed Signs

36:40 Proactive Strategies and Real-Life Examples

41:10 Trust and Security Measures

51:21 Observing, Listening, and Reporting

01:04:59 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

This Episode is sponsored by Ruth Anne Kramer the author of You Belong: The Guidebook for the Career-Minded Woman on the Move Ruth Anne openly shares her experiences of being questioned by others, being overlooked because of her differences, and not always being taken seriously as a woman in the workplace.

Purchase her book here: https://tactical16.com/product/you-belong-a-guidebook-for-the-career-minded-woman/

Find Bart Womack Here!

Embedded Enemy: The Insider Threat can be purchased on Amazon

https://bartwomack.com/

Navigating Military Spouse Life with Anne Kramer

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, host Sabrina is joined by guest Anne Kramer, author of 'You Belong,' a book for US military spouses. Anne shares her experiences of serving in the Army, transitioning to life as a military spouse, and her current career as a social worker and therapist for veterans. The discussion covers various challenges military spouses face, including misaligned expectations, self-doubt, and the importance of maintaining individual identity. Anne also emphasizes the significance of using connections, managing disappointments, and recognizing the value military spouses bring to the table. The episode highlights key lessons from Anne's book and underscores its utility as a guide for military spouses navigating their unique journeys.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:36 Anne's Military Background and Transition

01:27 Challenges of Being a Military Spouse

04:08 Finding Purpose and Career Transition

05:44 Exploring Anne's Book: 'You Belong'

08:47 Navigating Military Spouse Expectations

19:46 Dealing with Self-Doubt and Belonging

24:33 Leveraging Military Experience in Civilian Jobs

25:12 Navigating Imposter Syndrome

25:53 The Challenges of Starting a Nonprofit

27:11 The Power of Volunteer Support

27:44 Dealing with Minimization and Insecurity

29:43 The Importance of Connections

34:05 Lessons from a Military Career

36:21 The Reality of Job Hunting for Veterans

39:35 Embracing the Military Community

41:19 Advice for New Military Spouses

43:41 Celebrating Military Spouses

46:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Find Ruth Anne Kramer Here :https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthannekramer/

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

This Episode is sponsored by Ruth Anne Kramer the author of You Belong: The Guidebook for the Career-Minded Woman on the Move Ruth Anne openly shares her experiences of being questioned by others, being overlooked because of her differences, and not always being taken seriously as a woman in the workplace.

Purchase her book here: https://tactical16.com/product/you-belong-a-guidebook-for-the-career-minded-woman/