Our Military Kids: Activity Grants and Courageous Kids Recognition for Guard/Reserve Families

During Month of the Military Child, the host of Ruck Up Buttercup interviews Kara, a retired Navy veteran, longtime military spouse, and executive director of Our Military Kids, about supporting children in deployed National Guard/Reserve families and families of combat-injured service members. Kara shares her own Reserve mobilization after 9/11 with young children and explains how Guard/Reserve kids are often dispersed and overlooked compared to installation-based active-duty communities. The organization provides year-round extracurricular activity awards (from sports and music to driver’s ed and unique options like Japanese sword fighting), sending a “top secret package” that includes payment to the provider and a thank-you loop to donors. Kara cites survey data showing high stress during deployment and highlights benefits like stress relief, routine, friendships, mentors, family wellbeing, and boosted service member morale. She also describes the annual Courageous Kids contest (550+ nominations; 26 winners) spotlighted on social media in April.

00:00 Welcome And Guest Intro

02:03 Kara Military Journey

03:44 Why Guard Reserve Need Support

06:18 Mission Roots And Impact

09:39 Activities As Lifelines

13:27 Stress Data And Success Stories

15:13 Host Military Kid Story

18:26 Connection And Family Morale

23:54 What Grants Cover

25:22 How To Apply And Package

27:43 Thank You Card Loop

28:24 Impact on Families

30:21 Unique Activity Requests

31:46 Guard and Reserve Support Gap

33:41 Courageous Kids Contest

38:46 How Winners Stand Out

42:14 Sharing Stories in April

45:12 What People Overlook

48:04 Advice and Resources

53:08 Final Wrap and Thanks

Reach us at

Reach Our Military Kids at

Facebook.com/ourmilitarykids

Instagram.com/ourmilitarykids

Linkedin.com/ourmilitarykids

Finding Community Through Spouse Associations at Fort Bragg

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, the host talks with Renata, a military spouse and president of the Association of Bragg Spouses, about why building community is essential in military life and how spouse associations can help. Renata shares her late-in-life transition into military spouse life, joining the club soon after arriving at Fort Bragg, and how volunteering helped her find identity and support. They explain the club’s two main functions: philanthropy (raising funds for scholarships, continuing education, and welfare grants for local nonprofits) and social connection (coffee meetups, book club, nights out, luncheons, and other events). They discuss misconceptions that spouse clubs are only for officers, stress the importance of participation and volunteering to keep programs running, highlight newsletters and upcoming resource fairs, and encourage spouses to take initiative, ask for accommodations like childcare when possible, and ignore negativity in online groups.

00:00 Welcome Back Update

02:22 Meet Renata

03:23 Her Spouse Journey

05:56 Finding Purpose Volunteering

08:26 Building Local Community

11:45 Breaking Club Stigmas

14:36 Club Culture Matters

16:47 Programs Scholarships Grants

20:01 Social Events Internal Clubs

23:00 Kids Childcare Inclusion

27:14 Just Show Up

37:13 Funding Fundraisers Pivoting

41:05 Fundraisers That Give Back

42:31 Flexible Volunteering For Parents

44:16 Solo Parenting Reality Check

46:02 Stop Comparing Journeys

47:01 Join Spouse Associations

51:49 Resource Fairs And Scholarships

53:42 Deployment Support All Seasons

56:48 Podcast And Positive Community

01:00:15 Resilience And Survival Mode

01:02:29 Finding Your Tribe After PCS

01:09:56 Volunteer For Purpose And Resume

01:23:17 Closing Encouragement And Next Steps

Spouse Chat: Veterans on Becoming Military Spouses, Deployments, and the Comparison Trap

In this “Ruck Up Buttercup” spouse chat, Ashley hosts Lara and Grant, both veterans now military spouses, to discuss the shock of switching from service member to spouse, especially the loss of control during deployments, constant changes and extensions, and the value of understanding military language and realities. They compare deployment life for service members versus spouses managing home responsibilities, careers, finances, and reintegration challenges, noting that reunions can feel unexpectedly awkward and require relearning routines. The conversation covers career disruption, PCS barriers, stereotypes and drama in spouse Facebook groups, and how social media fuels negativity and comparison. Key guidance includes planning with flexibility, not overplanning, communicating needs during separation and reintegration, seeking supportive community and resources, avoiding assumptions, and not measuring one’s experience against others because every military journey is different.

00:00 Meet The Spouse Chat

02:28 From Service To Spouse

05:08 Deployment Extensions Reality

09:33 Losing Control At Home

14:13 PCS Careers And Money

16:41 Grant Love Story

20:58 Reintegration And Resentment

27:50 Spouse Groups Culture Shock

34:27 Prior Service Pros And Cons

38:40 Stereotypes And Spouse Views

41:26 Purpose Beyond Background

43:31 Every Sailor Has A Story

46:58 Spouse Groups With Empathy

49:42 Stereotypes And Reality Check

53:43 Finding The Right Community

56:49 Creating Content To Help

01:01:15 Parting Advice On Flexibility

01:05:55 Reintegration And No Comparison

01:14:39 Resources Plugs And Farewell

Find us or reach out here:

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DeployedLove

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we talk with **Lydia Owiti-Otienoh** — a Kenyan immigrant, attorney, military spouse, and founder of the **Foreign Born Military Spouse Network (FMSN)**.

Lydia shares her journey of moving to the United States while her husband was deployed and the challenges, she faced adjusting to military life as a foreign-born spouse. From culture shock and isolation to career disruption and immigration stress, Lydia opens up about the realities many immigrant military spouses experience but rarely talk about.

After struggling with depression, career loss, and navigating immigration restrictions, Lydia founded the **Foreign Born Military Spouse Network** to help other spouses overcome barriers through community, education, and support.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• The challenges of arriving in the U.S. alone while your spouse is deployed

• Career setbacks and credential recognition for immigrant spouses

• Immigration uncertainty and its mental health impact

• The isolation many foreign-born military spouses experience

• Why Lydia created the Foreign-Born Military Spouse Network

• The importance of community and support systems

This episode highlights the invisible stressors many military families face and offers resources and hope for immigrant spouses navigating military life abroad.

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:00 Podcast Update

02:31 Meet Lydia

03:21 Solo Arrival Shock

05:12 Learning Military Life

08:25 Career Loss Depression

14:06 Immigration Anxiety

17:54 Invisible Stressors

19:14 Culture Money Driving

26:53 Founding FMSN

29:11 Discovering Resources

33:34 Finding Foreign Spouses

35:56 Isolation and Culture Shock

39:23 Why This Network Exists

42:57 Urgent Needs Right Now

43:54 Programs and Policy Gaps

47:38 From Online to Local Chapters

52:03 Reach Out to New Neighbors

58:55 Advice for Rebuilding Abroad

01:02:47 How to Join and Connect

01:05:26 Final Resources and Wrap

If you found this conversation helpful, share it with someone who might need it.

#podcast #militaryspouse #immigrantexperience #militaryfamily

Find us or reach out here:

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DeployedLove

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Find Lydiah or FMSN here:

Website: http://fbmnetwork.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fbmsnetwork

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/foreign-born-military-spouse-network

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fbmilspouse/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@foreignbornmilspouses?lang=en

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@fbmilspouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefmsnplug

X:https: //x.com/fmsnetwork

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/fbmilspousenetwork

Email: [email protected]

Style, Confidence, and Community: Practical Fashion Tips for Military Spouses with Laura

The host of “Ruck Up Buttercup” rerecords an episode with Laura, a military spouse of 24.5 years nearing retirement, to discuss helping military spouses build confidence through personal style and community. Laura shares her story, her family’s Air Force spouse legacy, and how a difficult season in 2012 led her into personal styling focused on military spouses facing frequent moves, varying climates, cultural expectations, and unclear dress codes for military events. They discuss etiquette, dressing appropriately without drawing attention away from service members, and how clothing affects performance and self-perception. Laura recommends core capsule pieces (versatile dress, nice shoes, sneakers, well-fitting pants, blouse, blazer), advises trying items in-store, being mindful of fabrics and fit, using accessories for color, and finding mentors and supportive resources while avoiding negative online spaces.

00:00 Welcome Back Rerecord

03:22 Laura Military Journey

07:59 Why Style Matters

09:57 Event Dress Etiquette

18:09 Moves Change Wardrobes

21:41 Enclothed Cognition

28:36 Find Your Style Words

30:26 Try It In Store

35:26 Confidence Self Care

40:42 Capsule Wardrobe Basics

42:29 Must Have Pieces

45:18 Thrifting Next Steps

45:25 Thrifting Without Regret

46:16 Guilt on a Hanger

46:57 Fabric and Wrinkle Reality

49:16 Try On and Texture Test

50:20 Find Your Go To Stores

53:09 Custom Color Analysis

54:47 Wear Your Colors Anywhere

56:32 Third Piece Style Hack

58:06 Mentors and Spouse Networks

01:11:40 Resources and New Normals

01:13:28 Choose Yourself and Grow

01:18:51 Encouraging Voices Only

01:22:54 Final Wrap and Thanks

Find Laura here:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.wherelifemeetsstyle.co/

Insta: www.instagram.com/wherelifemeetsstyle.co

FB: www.facebook.com/wherelifemeetsstyle

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralongmire

Find us or reach out here:

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

How to Use Space-A Flights: A Military Spouse Guide with Allison Beverly

In this episode of the Ruck Up Buttercup podcast, hosts Sabrina and Ashley explore Space-A (Space Available) military flights as an affordable travel option for military families. They interview Alyson Beverly, a military spouse and homeschooling mom of six, who shares her family’s experience using Space-A flights to Europe three times in the past two years.

The discussion covers flight types (Patriot Express vs. cargo), how to research schedules, terminal locations, and the priority system (Categories 1 to 6), as well as timing considerations and planning tips. They highlight the importance of flexibility, avoiding peak travel periods, building buffer days and emergency funds, and OPSEC awareness.

Required paperwork including passports and visas, DD Form 1172, military IDs, leave forms, and sponsorship letters is reviewed, along with practical tips like arriving early, packing light, carrying snacks, dressing in layers, and preparing for cargo flight conditions. Helpful resources include the Pop Smoke blog and the Ebie Travels tool.

Alyson shares a cost-saving example. Her family traveled to Barcelona via Space-A for about 400 Euros instead of roughly 16,000 dollars in commercial airfare. The episode ends with information on Allison’s free monthly Space-A 101 class at the USO in Fort Belvoir, DC, with slides and links available in the show notes.

00:00 Welcome to Ruck Up Buttercup: Real Talk for Military Spouses

01:14 Meet Today’s Guest: Allison Beverly & Why Space-A Matters

03:42 Space-A 101: What “Space Available” Flights Really Are

05:24 Getting Started: Research, Schedules & What to Expect Onboard

06:17 Patriot Express vs Cargo Flights: Comfort, Seats, and Survival Tips

08:30 Where to Fly From: Best Terminals, Coasts vs Middle of the Country

10:13 Priority Categories Explained (Cat 1–6) & Who Gets Seats First

13:00 Sign-Up Timing, 60-Day Window & Return-Trip Strategy

16:47 Flexibility Wins: PCS Season, Off-Peak Travel & Backup Plans

21:45 How to Sign Up & Day-Of Terminal Process (AMC Site, Emails, Roll Call)

25:26 Arrive Early: Roll Call, Waiting, and Terminal Reality Check

27:06 Mindset & Logistics: Don’t Leave the Terminal + OPSEC Reminders

28:25 Must-Have Paperwork: DD1172, Leave Forms, Passports & Signatures

30:40 Money Matters Overseas: Cash vs Card in Europe/Asia + ATM Fee Hacks

32:38 Best Planning Resources: Popping Smoke, Eby Travels, and Flight History Data

37:58 Facebook Groups & Gatekeeping: Finding Real Trip Reports That Help

41:08 Packing & Kid-Proofing Space-A: Baggage Limits, Snacks, Shoes, Sensory Prep

50:29 High Risk, High Reward: Real Savings Stories + “Test Flight” to Germany

59:15 Local Help & Wrap-Up: Space-A 101 Class, Slides, and Final Thanks

Find Alyson here: http://www.beverlyfamily.com

AMC site (https://www.amc.af.mil/Home/AMC-Travel-Site/)

Space A 101: https://space-a-101.my.canva.site/

Space A simplified website: https://ebietravels.com/

Poppin Smoke Blog: https://www.poppinsmoke.com/

Military Travel Discounts: https://www.americanforcestravel.com/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/115017935197262

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Navigating the Silent Ranks: A Military Spouse's Journey

In this episode featuring a heartfelt chat between two military spouses, the discussion delves into the often overlooked challenges faced by military spouses, referred to as the 'silent ranks.' They cover the pressures of upholding a strong exterior, the struggles of balancing personal and family responsibilities, and the importance of self-care and community. Sharing personal anecdotes, they stress the significance of supporting each other, setting boundaries, and advocating for mental health. They also highlight the importance of sharing stories and resources to build a resilient military spouse community.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

00:34 The Unspoken Rule of Strength

01:19 Perception vs. Reality

03:36 The Struggles of Solo Parenting

05:15 The Importance of Community Support

07:55 Balancing Responsibilities and Self-Care

17:20 The Need for Personal Time

21:24 Balancing Personal Needs and Family Responsibilities

22:13 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care

23:50 The Importance of Community and Support

26:09 Navigating the Challenges of Military Life

29:38 The Power of Sharing Stories and Seeking Help

35:46 Embracing Limitations and Self-Compassion

41:16 Conclusion and Encouragement

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Ruck Up Buttercup: Building Military Families with Julie Eshelman

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, Sabrina, and Ashley, dive deep into the challenges and victories of military family building with Julie Eshelman, a resilient military spouse and the creator of the Building Military Families Network.

Julie shares her personal story of infertility, loss, and eventual triumph, offering practical advice and heartfelt encouragement for military families navigating the complexities of starting or expanding their families.

They discuss various avenues of family building, including IVF, adoption, fostering, and surrogacy, highlighting the unique obstacles military families face. The conversation also explores the importance of advocacy, support networks, and maintaining hope throughout the journey.

00:00 Welcome to Ruck Buttercup: Real Talk for Military Families

01:09 Introducing Our Special Guest: Julie Eshelman

01:35 Julie’s Journey: From Infertility Struggles to Building Military Families Network

03:01 Understanding Family Building: Beyond Traditional Family Planning

05:19 The Importance of Support in the Family Building Process

15:01 Challenges and Advocacy in Military Family Building

26:33 Common Feelings of Unworthiness

27:06 Navigating Social Media and Seeking Support

29:06 Exploring Family Building Options

31:29 Challenges of Fostering in Military Families

34:23 Adoption Journeys and Their Complexities

39:49 Support Networks and Resources

47:06 Finding Hope and Positivity

51:30 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]

Hot Mess Military Moments and How to Embrace Them

In this episode of Ruck Up Buttercup, hosts Lara, Sabrina, and Ashley dive deep into the complexities of military life, focusing on PCS (Permanent Change of Station) moves, housing issues, and the importance of advocacy. The discussion includes firsthand stories about the challenges of relocating, from damaged personal items to problematic housing conditions, and offers practical tips on documenting belongings and dealing with military movers. The episode also touches on the importance of standing up for oneself, particularly in situations involving poor leadership and housing disputes. The hosts emphasize the need for military spouses to stay informed, connected, and proactive in addressing issues that arise during their journey. Listeners are encouraged to share their own experiences and connect with the community for support and advice.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:38 Military Moving Nightmares

04:23 Tips for a Smooth PCS Move

15:41 Dealing with Military Housing Issues

19:13 Advocating for Yourself in Military Life

25:13 Unhinged Stories from Military Spouses

26:15 Home Inspections and Military Life

27:01 Rights and Regulations in Military Housing

29:12 Leadership and Command Issues

29:56 Challenges in Military Marriages

30:41 Advocating for Yourself in the Military

36:18 Medical Records and PCS Challenges

40:14 Unexpected Experiences in Military Life

44:45 Community and Support Systems

47:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Finding Community and Identity in Military Life

In this episode of 'Ruck Up Buttercup,' Sabrina and Ashley host Portia, a seasoned military spouse, to discuss the challenges and rewards of military life. They explore the importance of building community, the benefits of volunteering, and how to make the most of military spouse programs and resources. The conversation highlights organizations like American Workers Across the Globe (AAG) and the Military Spouse Advocacy Network (MSAN), offering insights on how these groups can help spouses stay connected and grow professionally and personally. The episode wraps up with tips for military spouses feeling unseen or exhausted and underscores the significant impact of empathy and community support.

00:00 Welcome to Ruck Buttercup: Real Talk for Military Families

01:14 Introducing Our Special Guest: Portia

01:47 Portia's Journey: From Europe to North Carolina

04:04 Building Community: The Importance of Support Networks

06:27 Creating and Sustaining Military Communities

13:20 Overseas Challenges and Community Building

26:25 Staying Grounded During Stressful Seasons

32:46 The Power of Community and Replication

34:33 Staying Grounded During Deployments

35:08 Exploring and Embracing New Locations

36:35 Memories and Experiences of Military Kids

38:59 The Impact of Frequent Moves on Children

40:38 Building a Supportive Network

47:22 The Role of AAG in Supporting Military Spouses

51:27 Challenges and Opportunities for Military Spouses Overseas

59:51 Leveraging Volunteer Experience for Career Growth

01:05:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Find us or reach out here:

Website: www.deployedlove.org/podcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ruckupbuttercup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruckupbuttercuppodcast

Email: [email protected]

Learn more at: https://www.awagleadership.org