From Heartbreak to Policy Change: A Military Mother’s Mission

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Amanda Rebhi shares her journey as a major in the US Air Force, discussing her experiences at the Air Force Academy, her career in space operations and NATO, and her advocacy for women's health issues following her personal loss of a pregnancy. She highlights the importance of bereavement and convalescent leave for military women and the systemic issues within military obstetric care. Amanda's work with the Women's Initiative Team aims to improve the quality of care and support for women in the military, emphasizing the need for better policies and practices to ensure their well-being. This conversation delves into the challenges faced by women in the military regarding childbirth and healthcare. It highlights the common issues of inadequate care, the importance of patient choice, and the disparities in military healthcare systems. The speakers share personal experiences and research findings that underscore the need for improved women's health services and the empowerment of women to advocate for their care.ABOUT AMANDA:Amanda Rebhi is an active duty Major in the US Air Force and currently works in the SAF/PA office on a broadening tour following IDE. Previously, she led the DAF Small Business Innovation Research Program, managing $1.2B annually to scale critical emerging technologies for warfighters. A 2012 USAFA graduate, her career spans space operations, NATO airlift coordination, and missile warning and counter-terrorism program management. As a WIT member, she helped establish DoD bereavement leave & pregnancy loss convalescence. She was a DAF Strategic Communication Fellow earning a Master's in Communication at George Mason University, publishing research regarding the quality of obstetric care in the Military Health System. She also holds a Master’s in International Marketing Management from Boston University and is part of the Language Enabled Airmen Program for speaking Spanish and French.CONNECT:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandarebhi/Support the showSUBSCRIBE and SHARE!Women Serve Too Merch (10% of Profits Benefits Female Veterans): https://www.etsy.com/shop/WomenServeToo