Salty Milspouse

In this episode, we sit down with Moni Jefferson, founder of AMSE Agency (Association of Military Spouse Entrepreneurs), for a conversation that blends inspiration, real-deal business wisdom, and the power of community...plus a very important discussion about the *perfect nachos*. Moni shares her journey as a military spouse entrepreneur and the “why” behind building AMSE Agency as a space rooted in connection, collaboration, and togetherness. We talk about what it really takes to grow a business in military life, how community changes everything, and why you don’t have to do it alone (even if you’re used to figuring things out solo). Come for the entrepreneurial insight, stay for the encouragement—and yes, leave with nacho opinions you didn’t know you needed. Learn more about AMSE Agency here: Website: [https://amseagency.com](https://amseagency.com) Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/amseagency/](https://www.facebook.com/amseagency/) Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/amseagency/](https://www.instagram.com/amseagency/) LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-of-military-spouse-entrepreneurs](https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-of-military-spouse-entrepreneurs) Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: [https://saltymilspouse.com](https://saltymilspouse.com) Shop Salty: [https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/](https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/) Salty Milspouse Guest Application: [https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48](https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48) Dear Salty Submission Form: [https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8](https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8) Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel💋

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Murray, VP of Strategic Partnerships from American Corporate Partners (ACP) to talk about how meaningful mentorship can change the career trajectory of military spouses and veterans. Nicole walks us through ACP’s program offerings and shares how the organization connects participants with corporate mentors to support career growth, transitions, and long-term professional goals. We discuss ACP’s commitment to reducing career barriers, building confidence, and helping military-connected professionals translate their experience into thriving civilian careers. Whether you’re job searching, pivoting industries, or simply craving guidance from someone who’s been there before, this conversation highlights why mentorship matters—and how ACP makes it accessible. Learn more about American Corporate Partners here: [https://www.acp-usa.org](https://www.acp-usa.org) Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: [https://saltymilspouse.com](https://saltymilspouse.com) Shop Salty: [https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/](https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/) Salty Milspouse Guest Application: [https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48](https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48) Dear Salty Submission Form: [https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8](https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8) Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, **Amanda & Bethel** 💋

In this episode, we sit down with Morgan Reister, the Volunteer Manager for Navy Services FamilyLine to talk about the trusted resources that support Navy spouses and families at every stage of service. We explore Navy Services FamilyLine’s publications and programs designed to help spouses feel informed, confident, and connected—no matter where Navy life takes them. We also take a closer look at COMPASS, Navy Services FamilyLine’s mentorship program that pairs new and experienced spouses to navigate deployments, PCS moves, and everyday Navy life with clarity and community. Morgan shares who COMPASS is for and how this program creates meaningful connection and support for Navy families. Learn more about Navy Services FamilyLine:
Website: https://nsfamilyline.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nsfamilyline/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nsfamilyline/ Salty Sites
Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com
Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/
Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48
Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening!
 Stay salty,
Amanda & Bethel 💋

In this episode, we sit down with Alysha Stella, LCSW, to talk about therapy for military spouses—and why it’s so much more than “coping” with the lifestyle. We get into honest conversations about identity, boundaries, burnout, and what it actually looks like to show up as your authentic self when military life constantly asks you to shrink, adapt, or start over. Alysha brings clarity, compassion, and practical insight as we unpack how therapy can support military spouses. Whether you’re therapy-curious, already in the work, or just trying to figure out who you are outside of the role you play, this episode offers validation, permission, and a few well-timed gut checks. You can find Alysha here: Stella Counseling: https://stellacounseling.com Psychology Today Profile: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/alysha-stella-memphis-tn/945495 Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel 💋

PCSing overseas can be the worst. The process to actually move overseas is ridiculous. Then you get to a whole different world where the isolation hits harder, nothing works the way it “should,” and suddenly even buying groceries feels like an Olympic sport. In this episode, we’re talking honestly about why overseas moves can knock military spouses flat—and why it’s okay to hate parts of it. And then… there’s the plot twist. Because if you’re willing (and we mean willing, not just magically or toxically positive), overseas life can also be wildly life-changing. It’s not all sunshine and sushi—but sometimes it is really dang worth it. Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Making friends as a military spouse can feel awkward at the best of times—and even harder during the deployment cycle. In this special episode, recorded for the 2025 PILLAR Deployment Retreat back in October, we’re inviting you to become a Glow-Getter 💛 by taking the pressure, weirdness, and uncertainty out of making new friends IRL. Together, we talk through practical, approachable ways military spouses can spark connection, build trust, and create long-lasting friendships—whether you’re brand new to a duty station, deep in deployment, or simply craving community that feels genuine and supportive. This conversation is all about reminding you that you’re not “bad at making friends”—you’re just navigating a uniquely challenging season. Note: This episode was recorded during the 2025 PILLAR Deployment Retreat and is being shared now—but the insights, encouragement, and connection-building tools are just as relevant whenever (and wherever) you’re listening. Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https: saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

In this episode, we sit down with Nicolle Vasquez Del Favero to talk about the Military Spouse JD Network (MSJDN) and their incredible work advocating for and supporting attorney military spouses. From navigating licensing barriers to building professional opportunities, Nicolle shares how MSJDN is making an impact for legal professionals in the military community. Note: this conversation was recorded back in 2024, but because life was life-ing, we’re just sharing it now in 2025—and the work, efforts, and support remain just as relevant today. Military Spouse JD Network: https://msjdn.org Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/  Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48  Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8  Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty,  Amanda & Bethel

Not every milspouse journey includes having kids—and that’s okay. Being a childfree milspouse often means navigating stigma, side comments, and the assumption that community is only built around kids. In this episode, we’re talking honestly about the barriers childfree spouses face—and why their choice doesn’t make them “less” in this lifestyle. We’ll also challenge you to rethink your own assumptions and start creating space where every milspouse can belong kids or not. Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/  Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48  Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8  Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty,  Amanda & Bethel

Surprise change in orders? Check. Sudden schedule changes? Check. Two mildly (okay, majorly) stressed co-hosts? DOUBLE CHECK. In this real-talk episode, we are riding the wave of the ever dreaded and unexpected "I've got news" calls from our spouses—and bringing you along for the emotional loop-de-loop. Our Google calendars are weeping, but we are making the most of it and glad you're coming along this ride with us! Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

We are unpacking our raw, unfiltered gut reactions to the 2024 election, recorded just one week after the results. This episode dives into what we’re about as a podcast and a community, while staying true to our mission of amplifying the voices of military spouses—especially those who feel unseen or unheard. This will always be a safe space for military spouses on the fringes: minorities, those who identify as LGBTQ+, and anyone who doesn’t fit the cookie-cutter image of the "perfect" Stars and Stripes American family. This community was created intentionally for those who need a space to vent, connect, and feel empowered to take action. We are committed to holding every administration accountable for supporting, caring for, and truly valuing military families. Feeling helpless in these power dynamics is valid—but you have options. Our hope is that this episode inspires you to stand in your truth, demand better, and fight for what you believe in. Show links: https://www.moaa.org/ https://securefamiliesinitiative.org/ https://insighttimer.com/TheMindfulMilspouse/guided-meditations/finding-peace-and-purpose-in-uncertainty Salty Sites +Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com +Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ +Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 +Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 XOXO, Amanda & Bethel Note: The comments and opinions of Amanda Wagner and Bethel Trask are their own. They do not reflect the official position or endorsement of any U.S. Government entity.

In this episode, we sit down with Patricia Sandoval with Project Sanctuary, to explore the incredible work the nonprofit is dedicated to in helping military families heal, reconnect, and thrive. Patty will explain how Project Sanctuary combines therapeutic retreats, supportive community connections, and ongoing resources to address the unique challenges faced by service members, veterans, and their loved ones. From combating isolation to fostering resilience, Project Sanctuary is transforming lives one family at a time. Visit projectsanctuary.us to learn more about their retreats, volunteer opportunities, and how you can support their mission. If you have specific questions regarding the application process, you can email, [email protected]. Salty Sites +Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com +Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ +Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 +Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 XOXO, Amanda & Bethel

In this episode, we’re honored to have Kayla Corbitt, the founder and CEO of Operation Child Care Project™. Kayla shares how being a salty milspouse turned into a movement that supports our military families and their children. Join us as we deep dive into the data, the impact, and solutions related to childcare for the military. You won’t want to miss this episode where you’ll learn how to use OCC Project™, how to get involved, and how to push for better childcare initiatives! +Operation Child Care Project™: https://www.occproject.org/ Salty Sites +Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com +Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ +Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 +Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

This week, Amanda and Bethel are back with life updates and real talk about navigating military spouse life—because sometimes, life is just lifeing. From unexpected curveballs to the everyday hustle, they’re sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. And hang tight for a (literal) surprise (more like interrupting) guest in the middle of the show. Grab a snack and join us for some laughs, relatable moments, and a whole lot of "you’re not alone" vibes.

Nicole Longmire, MPH, MAEd, IBCLC, and Air Force spouse, joins us on today's episode to discuss her milspouse story and how it led to her involvement with Global Military Lactation Community. Nicole sheds light on the barriers that lactating military spouses and service members face and how Global MilCom aims to reduce those barriers through providing evidence-based information, individual and group support, and training military lactation counselors. We hope you feel inspired with the good work that Nicole and Global MilCom does in the lactation world for our military families. Please see the following websites to see how you can get involved! How to find Nicole and Global MilCom: https://www.mothernurturelactationservices.com/ https://globalmilcom.org/ Salty Sites: Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

We're diving into a juicy Dear Salty Submission: "How do I unfriend people in real life? Context: I have a shitty friend and I don't know how to break up with them. HELP!" Salty Sites: Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening and stay tuned for the next episode! XOXO, Amanda & Bethel

We are honored to have Sam Sliney join us on this episode to talk about the Air Force Women’s Initiatives Team and NDAA season. If you want to feel inspired, this is a great episode to listen to on what it means to be salty about something and finding your way to yes! As a heads up, we did have some technical difficulties and lost Amanda mid-show, but the episode was still able to highlight some great initiatives, tips for advocacy, and how to make the military world a better place! Show Note Links +WIT Portal: https://www.my.af.mil/gcssaf/USAF/ep/globalTab.do?channelPageId=sC9710F91735E613101735E85027F0040 +LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/department-of-the-air-force-women-s-initiatives-team +Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/groups/AFWIT +WIT Swag Shop: https://womeninthemilitary.etsy.com +Link to purchase children’s book inspired by the work of the DAF WIT written by Megan Biles and Samantha Arrington Sliney: All The Things Our Mommy Can Do https://a.co/d/7fjG80h +Joint Travel Regulations: https://www.travel.dod.mil/Policy-Regulations/Joint-Travel-Regulations/ Salty Sites +Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com +Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ +Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 +Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 XOXO, Amanda & Bethel Note: The comments and opinions of Samantha Sliney are her own. They do not reflect the official position or endorsement by the U.S. Air Force, Air National Guard, National Guard Bureau, Department of the Air Force or Department of Defense.

Amanda and Bethel are back! And we are diving deep into the tea with our first episode of the Dear Salty series: "I'm having a hard time talking to my husband's girl colleagues in the unit. I'm very friendly and whenever I say hi, they don't acknowledge me or say hi back. They just give me the cold shoulder and never get the chance to talk to me. Have you guys ever experienced this?" Salty Sites: Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening and stay tuned for the next episode! XOXO, Amanda & Bethel

It's PCS season. Cue horror now. Listen along for the good, the bad, and the ugly...and maybe some new tips on how to make the process of PCSing a little less painful. Good luck out there friends! Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 . Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Amanda and Bethel tackle homecoming prep and how we deal with reintegration after deployments or extended periods of separation from our service members. Resources: - https://www.militaryonesource.mil/relationships/married-domestic-partner/marriage-enrichment-programs/ - https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/legal/managing-the-divorce-process/ - https://projectsanctuary.us/ Find us here: Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Amanda and Bethel talk about how to bring that main character energy to their experiences as military spouses . Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Amanda and Bethel get real about milspouse loneliness and how they have worked through it over the years and continue to deal with it. Resource List: Bumble BFF: https://bumble.com/en-us/bff New Parent Support: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/new-parent-support-program/ Peanut: https://www.peanut-app.io/ Meet Up: https://www.meetup.com/ ITT/MWR Trips: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/recreation-travel-shopping/mwr/ Military one source: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ Tricare and Therapy: https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening and stay tuned for the next episode where we talk about Main Character Energy! Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Amanda and Bethel dive deep into the term "Dependa". Join us as we share how we came to know the term, how we break it down, and how we weigh in on dependa culture. Websites for the articles we used in the show: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/11/08/dod-dependent-military-families.html https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2024/february/whats-name-talking-about-military-spouses Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening and stay tuned for the next episode! Stay Salty, Amanda & Bethel

Join us as we talk through instagram submissions from listeners on milspouse expectations and realities. Follow along as we weigh in on these hot takes and talk about how we not only embrace the suck, but also decrease the suck! Fact Checking Websites: Military Medical Malpractice: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2021/06/16/troops-can-finally-file-medical-malpractice-claims-against-military-heres-how.html Unpaid Labor of Milspouse Contributions: https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2024/february/whats-name-talking-about-military-spouses Salty Sites Salty Milspouse Site: https://saltymilspouse.com Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening and stay tuned for the next episode where we will share all about us and how this podcast came to be. Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Get to know us, your hosts, Amanda and Bethel. We dive deep into the nitty gritty details of who we are, how we came to be, and open up more on that bath salts situation. Salty Site: https://saltymilspouse.com/home Shop Salty: https://saltymilspouse.myshopify.com/ Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening and stay tuned for the next episode where we will share all about us and how this podcast came to be. Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Welcome to our very fist episode of Salty Milspouse, the podcast. We will dive into some basics of what Salty is all about and what we have planned for this podcast. Salty Milspouse Guest Application: https://forms.gle/Q9YLbYGajVU7u9z48 Dear Salty Submission Form: https://forms.gle/fPdPaPTeCH6Ptp9n8 Thank you so much for listening and stay tuned for the next episode where we will share all about us and how this podcast came to be. Stay salty, Amanda & Bethel

Enjoy this little dash of salt to hear the intro to Salty Milspouse, the podcast.