In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we sit down with the leaders of the Reveille & Retreat Project, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming trauma for military women through outdoor retreats, movement, meditation, and connection.

Our two incredible guests today, Carole and Heather, are military women who took part in the transformative rafting retreat. Their experiences reflect the strength, courage, and healing power of nature that the Reveille & Retreat Project brings to life. Together, we will explore the unique challenges faced by military women, both during and after their service, and how these retreats empower women to reclaim their strength and find their voice. Listen in as we dive into their recent collaboration with Warrior Impact on the Military Women’s River Rafting Retreat, discussing how nature, storytelling, and vulnerability are fostering deep healing and building a powerful sense of community.

Resources Mentioned in Today's Episode:

Reveille & Retreat Project Website

Warrior Impact

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, hosts Captain Kim and Captain Dakota welcome a military nurse anesthetist who shares her journey through addiction and recovery. After enlisting in the Army and facing overwhelming stress, she turned to prescription medications, eventually leading to a substance use disorder.

Her story highlights the vital role of community for veterans addressing and overcoming mental health challenges and coping with addiction. Her story underscores the power of seeking help. From managing family life with an active duty spouse to building careers in both military and civilian sectors, her story offers valuable perspective on paths available for others in the military and beyond.

Hear about a new women's residential program supporting female veterans and the importance of community in achieving lasting recovery. Don't miss this episode filled with resilience, hope, and heartfelt experiences.

Domiciliary resource mentioned in the episode:

https://www.va.gov/homeless/dchv.asp

The veteran crisis line also has resources for addressing addiction:

Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

Eva Nevarez St. John is an Army veteran who served from 1976-1982, including time in the Army Reserves. She is the author of When Tough Cookies Crumble: A True Story of Friendship, Murder, and Healing, a memoir that chronicles her military experiences and the deep friendship that shaped her life. Eva is currently semi-retired and living in New Mexico.

Episode Description: In this episode, we delve into the life and military career of Eva Nevarez St. John, an Army veteran who served from 1976 to 1982, including time in the Army Reserves. Eva shares her journey from a curious and adventurous Army brat to a dedicated soldier who joined the military to escape personal hardship and pursue higher education.

Eva reflects on the challenges and triumphs of her military service, discussing the discrimination she faced as a woman soldier, the deep bond she formed with her best friend in Korea, and the devastating impact of her friend’s murder by an ROTC instructor. She also talks about the positive characteristics she developed through her service, such as discipline and confidence, as well as the lasting caution she feels towards men in power.

Throughout the episode, Eva offers valuable advice to women considering or currently pursuing a military career, emphasizing the importance of preparation, support networks, and self-care.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563521104576

Website:

https://enchantedspiritjourneys.com/

Books:

When Tough Cookies Crumble: A True Story of Friendship, Murder, and Healing

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.