Military OneSource Podcast

This episode continues our deep dive into the New Parent Support Program, featuring insights from a Marine Corps spouse and her home visitor. Discover how playgroups and home visits can create a lifeline for new parents. From playgroups to one-on-one visits, NPSP can help parents build confidence and connections in the midst of military life. It’s not about having all the answers — it’s about showing up, being real and finding support in unexpected places. Host Bruce Moody speaks with Sarah Grantham, an NPSP home visitor; and Cassidy Babin, a military spouse and mom at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. Together, they share how the program — a free, voluntary service — can be a trusted anchor for new parents navigating life far from family. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/new-parent-support-program/ to learn about the NPSP resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

This episode explores the New Parent Support Program through the eyes of a Navy spouse and her home visitor. Learn how the NPSP helps parents navigate early parenthood, without judgment or scrutiny. Hear how home visits offer guidance rooted in safety, culture and compassion, helping new parents feel confident, supported and never alone. You don’t need a perfect home — just a willingness to ask for help. Host Bruce Moody speaks with La Shanté Francis, a home visitor based at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida; and Catalina Chavez, a Navy spouse and mom based in Kings Bay, Georgia. Together, they share their journey through the New Parent Support Program, a free, voluntary service available to military families. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/new-parent-support-program/ to learn more about resources and support available to military parents. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Few decisions weigh heavier on a military family than choosing to live apart during an assignment. In this episode, Leslie Gould – a seasoned military spouse who has geo-bached five times – shares the realties behind that choice. Drawing from her personal journey and her current role as director of Navy Fleet and Family Readiness, she offers both heartfelt perspective and expert advice for navigating the challenges of geo-baching. Host Bruce Moody joins Leslie to unpack reasons some families opt for geo-baching as well as the support available to help them through it. Visit Military OneSource’s Preparing to Move topic center at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-pcs/plan-to-move/ to learn about the wealth of information, resources and support available to military families who are preparing to PCS, from stress management and career assistance to child care, parenting and education information and more. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

From moving to Italy from Japan to starting college in the U.S., these military-connected youth have navigated big transitions and found steady ground through their installation’s youth center that is affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Host Bruce Moody speaks with Military Youth of the Year finalists about how youth center mentors became lifelong anchors, how community helped them embrace new cultures and why “once a club kid, always a club kid” is more than just a motto. They share how teen and youth centers — often the only constant amid frequent moves — offer a place where they are truly seen and supported. From building leadership skills to discovering passions like mental health advocacy, the youth center has given them the tools to thrive no matter where military life takes them. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/resources/external/military-youth-of-the-year/ to learn about the resources and support available for military-connected teens. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Entrepreneurship offers military spouses a flexible and portable career path to follow wherever military life takes them. Learn how the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program supports both aspiring and seasoned small-business owners. Host Bruce Moody speaks with SECO Career Coach Rhonda McCall about the program’s entrepreneurship career coaching package. Coaches offer personalized support to spouses whether they’re just starting out or transitioning their business after a move. McCall discusses business planning, finding financial support, licensing reimbursement, overcoming barriers and more. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/education-employment/seco/ to learn about the resources and support available to military spouses. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard. In this episode, you’ll hear simple, practical ways to make meals better for you and your family. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, you’ll learn how to plan meals, shop smarter and build habits that stick. Host Bruce Moody speaks with Capt. Frances White, a registered dietitian with the U.S. Army Medical Department, about how to take the stress out of healthy eating and make good nutrition part of everyday life. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/health-wellness/fitness-nutrition/ to learn about nutrition and fitness resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

In part two of this conversation, host Bruce Moody talks with military-connected teens who recently presented three priorities and real solutions to Defense Department leaders as part of the Joint Service Teen Council. The JSTC empowers military-connected teens by giving them a platform to address their concerns and collaboratively develop solutions that benefit the entire military community. The teens discussed insufficient accessibility and availability, insufficient life skills programming and inadequate financial resources and fundraising gaps for teen centers. These teen leaders share honest stories about the challenges of military life and how finding solutions can improve mental health and well-being for military-connected teens. By advocating for better support, they’re helping ensure service members can stay mission-ready. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/military-youth-teen-programs/ to learn about the resources and support available to military youth and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Military-connected teens are stepping up, speaking out, building connections and making a difference. In the first episode of this two-part conversation, host Bruce Moody chats with members of the Joint Service Teen Council. The JSTC empowers military-connected teens by giving them a platform to address their concerns and collaboratively develop solutions that benefit the entire military community. As advocates working to make life better for military-connected teens, these young leaders share how they are preparing to brief Pentagon leaders on the real challenges military-connected youth face — from frequent moves to staying connected with friends. They also share how teen centers and youth programs help them grow, stay grounded and support one another. Their involvement not only strengthens them personally but also gives their service member parents peace of mind. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/military-youth-teen-programs/ to learn about the resources and support available to military-connected youth and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Strong families are the foundation of a mission-ready force. In this powerful conversation, host Bruce Moody speaks with Stephen Simmons — Marine veteran, military spouse, father and new deputy assistant secretary of defense for Military Community and Family Policy. Simmons shares how supporting military families drives retention, readiness and resilience and outlines his vision for transforming quality of life through initiatives like nutrition, mental health and spouse employment. This episode connects policy to everyday military life and why it matters for the future of the force. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ to learn about the resources and support available to service members and families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

In this episode, a career coach from the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program walks through seven real-life career scenarios, offering expert guidance and practical support tailored to military spouses. Host Bruce Moody speaks with SECO Career Coach Deborah McKenzie about navigating resume gaps, portable career options while stationed overseas, entrepreneurship, license portability and occupational licensure compacts, the return-to-work order for federal employees, networking and career advancement strategies, and career paths for those new to the workforce. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/education-employment/seco/ to learn about the resources and support available to military spouses. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

What you eat matters — especially when the demands are high. In this episode, host Bruce Moody speaks with Army Capt. Tina Sergi, assistant chief of Nutrition Education and Research at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, who breaks down the power of performance nutrition for service members. Learn how small, sustainable dietary changes can improve energy, recovery and mission readiness, even in demanding environments. From eating well on a tight schedule to making smart choices with supplements and hydration, you’ll walk away with practical tips to fuel your body and perform at your best in any environment. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/health-wellness/fitness-nutrition/ to learn about the resources and support available to service members. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

What if every military installation could deliver support that’s not just reactive but truly transformative? At Fort Cavazos, the newly established People Directorate is reshaping how we care for our service members. The People Directorate consolidates nine previously separate prevention and support programs under one umbrella to improve coordination and better serve soldiers, families and civilians. Hear how this unified approach enhances well-being, helps prevent harmful behaviors and ensures support is accessible, even at one of the Army’s largest installations. Host Bruce Moody speaks with retired Col. Jason Westbrock, former commander of U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Cavazos, Director of Army Community Services Donna Morrissey and Capt. Avery D. Smith II, commandant of the Phantom Forge Center. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/health-wellness/prevention-care/ to learn about the resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

This is a story of strength. In this powerful episode, host Bruce Moody speaks with Aviation Ordnanceman Petty Officer 3rd Class Tyler Dixon and Aviation Ordnanceman Petty Officer 3rd Class Liz Dixon as they share their family’s story of resilience in the face of traumatic life events. You’ll also hear from Recovery Care Coordinator Tricia Loomis and Regional Program Director Marcus Pace as they share details of the personalized support provided by the Wounded Warrior Program and examples of how they worked with Tyler, Liz and other families after injury or illness. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/military-basics/wounded-ill-injured-and-caregivers/ to learn about the resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

What happens when a Marine reaches a breaking point and chooses to speak up instead of staying silent? In this episode, host Bruce Moody speaks with Sgt. Fahteh Gill, who shares his powerful journey of recovery and self-discovery. Through open and honest conversation, Sgt. Gill talks about how seeking help, embracing vulnerability and engaging with leadership helped him heal after a suicide attempt. It’s a candid discussion about the strength found in emotional self-care — and why it’s essential for personal well-being and mission readiness. If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available. Call the Military Crisis Line at 988, then press 1, text 838255 or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net. Visit Military OneSource to learn more about suicide prevention resources and support for service members. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

What does it take for a Marine air traffic controller to make the leap from the flight line to the Ivy League? In this episode, you’ll hear from a Marine who achieved that goal through determination, hard work and the support of the Marine Corps Leadership Scholar Program. Host Bruce Moody speaks with Education Services Officer Rubie Blue at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego and Joey Cano, a veteran Marine and undergraduate student at Harvard University. They discuss the Marine Corps LSP, the challenges and successes of pursuing higher education as a service member and how education centers help service members reach their academic and career goals. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/education-employment/for-service-members/ learn about the resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

There’s a common myth that enrolling in the Exceptional Family Member Program can harm your military career, but that simply isn’t true. It supports it. In this episode, host Bruce Moody talks with Col. R. Erik Herrmann, commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and father to a child with special needs, who shares how EFMP helped his family thrive without holding back his professional growth. Tune in to learn five key takeaways about EFMP: why enrolling matters, how the program aligns with career progression, the push for policy standardization across branches, the support available after relocation, and how respite care helps military caregivers recharge. Note: The respite care reimbursement model discussed in this episode applies to the Marine Corps only. Other military branches provide respite care through contractors, so service members are not required to find their own provider. This episode reflects one Marine’s personal experience with EFMP. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/resources/millife-guides/efmp-resources/ to learn about the resources and support available to military families with special needs. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Support doesn’t always wear a uniform. Sometimes, it walks by with a warm smile and a listening ear. Learn how a military and family life counselor offers just that — approachable, everyday support through “walk-around counseling” that breaks down barriers and builds trust with service members where they are. In this episode, host Bruce Moody speaks with MFLC Raymond Hewitt, who serves at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida. Hewitt shares real stories from his work supporting not only single service members but the entire military community, helping them navigate stress, loneliness and the daily challenges of military life through simple, meaningful conversations. Hear how MFLCs like Raymond help redefine the idea of “family” in the military and why their steady, judgment-free presence makes all the difference. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/military-family-life-counseling-program/ to learn about the resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Listen in as family members tell the stories of military heroes killed in battle during World War I and World War II. Also, hear about the correspondence these heroes had with loved ones back home, the circumstances surrounding their deaths and how their remains were uncovered decades later. You’ll also hear from representatives of the ABMC, which works closely with families such as these to memorialize service members interred overseas. Host Bruce Moody speaks with Gretchen Wronka, daughter of 1st Lt. Loren Hintz (buried at Florence American Cemetery); Paul Stouffer, great nephew of Pvt. William Donnelly (buried at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery) and nephew of 2nd Lt. William McGowan (buried at Normandy American Cemetery); Eryth Zecher, superintendent at Florence American Cemetery; and John Bolt, assistant superintendent at Normandy American Cemetery. Visit Military OneSource’s Survivor & Casualty Assistance category page at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/casualty-assistance/ to learn about the resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil, or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Summer’s here, and so are PCS moves and vacation costs. Discover practical budgeting strategies to stay mission-ready with smart financial tips and expert support from a financial counselor. Hear how personalized support services from Military OneSource can save you money and assist with everything from counseling and tax guidance to legal help and employment resources for spouses. Find out how reaching out for support can connect you with a network of experts ready to guide you through every twist of the military life journey. Host Bruce Moody speaks with Military OneSource Financial Counselor Joan Johnson. Service members and eligible family members can access financial counseling for free through installation programs and Military OneSource. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/financial-counseling/ to learn about the resources and support available to service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.

Discover how an installation is revolutionizing meal options to get fresh, nutritious meals to troops. Learn more about dining facilities, food trucks and culinary outpost kiosks that offer convenient grab-and-go options, such as fresh salads, sandwiches and, at some locations, even heated meals. You’ll also learn about programs and discounts designed to help military families and service members save on groceries. Plus, find out how a dining facility was transformed into a vibrant, food court-style concept with a modern, ambient vibe, making mealtimes more inviting for service members. Host Bruce Moody speaks with Chief Warrant Officer 4 Carl J. Schimpf, senior food advisor for III Corps and Fort Cavazos; Sgt. Maj. Kresassidy L. McKinney, chief culinary management sergeant major and senior logistics operations noncommissioned officer for III Corps and Fort Cavazos; and Chontrelle Sturdivant, installation food program manager at Fort Cavazos. Visit Military OneSource at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/resources/millife-guides/food-security-resources-and-support-programs/ to learn about the Nutrition readiness resources and support available for service members and their families. Bruce Moody is a public affairs specialist with the Defense Department’s Military OneSource. Share your feedback about this podcast as well as ideas for future episodes by visiting the Military OneSource Podcasts Feedback Form at https://public.militaryonesource.mil/podcast-feedback. The Military OneSource Podcast series is an official resource of the Defense Department. For more information, visit MilitaryOneSource.mil or call 800-342-9647. Military OneSource is your 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help you reach your goals, overcome challenges and thrive.