We’ve all been through bad experiences and it’s easy to feel alone as you go through them. But to be there for someone else who is going through something you already went through can be powerful. Author Jessica Manfre has a goal of leaving this world a better place than when she came into it and that’s where the book “Never Alone” came into play.

A fellow author and military spouse told her she had a story to share and challenged her to think about what she wanted to bring to our community as a resource. She thought of all of the pain points and chose loneliness. We’re not as alone as we think, friendship is such a beautiful gift. But don’t forget to give yourself space and time to feel your feelings and don’t give into toxic positivity.

Jessica Manfre is a licensed master social worker, author, and co-founder of a non-profit, Inspire Up. She is also the co-founder of the global acts of kindness campaign, GivingTuesdayMilitary. Jessica’s passion lies in serving others and advocating for those in need.

Listeners, if you would like to learn more about Jessica Manfre, you can find out more by clicking here or connect with her online via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. And if you would like to learn more about Inspire Up, click here or connect with them online via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Lastly, you can find the book “Never Alone” at any major retailer.

Resource Recon with KateLynn and Jade

This week’s Resource Recon is all about our blog!. One of our newest bloggers, Julie Eshelman, who wrote “THE BEST KEPT SECRET OF THE MILITARY….AGR!” This blog gives us a little history on their families military journey. Did you know what  Active Guard Reserve was?

Empowerment Patrol Report with Amanda

Today we are showcasing our Everyday Empowerment recipient, Brunella Costaglioa, who was nominated by Julie Tully.

Julie shares, “I met Brunella when I was first considering writing my memoir. She had just launched The Military Editor Agency. There was an immediate connection between us after our first call and I knew I would be foolish not to work with her. From day one, she became my cheerleader and advisor. It is because of her expertise and guidance that I felt brave enough to seek out a publisher and go public with my story. And now, I am also honored to call her a friend. She’s one of a kind.

Not only is Brunella a talented editor and author, but she is also an incredible advocate for the military. Like I’ve told many people, Brunella is a person you want to have in your corner. The term “everyday empowerment” could’ve been coined with her in mind—she empowers the military community everyday. We are all the better because she exists.”

On behalf of Mission: Milspouse, thank you so much to Brunella for doing your part to empower military families all across the globe. 

Moxie Minute with Amie

Today’s word is Fearless.

Military families know better than anyone the importance of facing fears head-on. Whether it’s sending a loved one off to a deployment or facing the unknowns of a new duty station, fear can be a constant companion. But it’s also an opportunity to demonstrate true moxie.

So how can we cultivate fearlessness in ourselves and our families? It starts with recognizing that fear is a natural and normal human emotion. But we don’t have to let it control us. We can practice taking small risks, challenging ourselves to step outside our comfort zones, and focusing on the things that matter most to us. 

So let’s embrace our fears, take on new challenges with courage and determination, and show the world what true moxie looks like. Alright spouses, until next time, Moxie Up!

News 6 with Emma

Here is this week’s News 6 mashup of stories for the week of April 3, 2023, straight from M:M News 6 Correspondent, Emma Tighe:

New Initiatives for the Military Family

In an attempt to combat ever rising cost of living, the DOD has released initiatives to help with the financial burdens facing our military families. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin released a plan of attack to lower the cost of childcare and help spouses get back into the workforce. This plan includes universal pre-kindergarten at Department of Defense Education Activity Schools in the next five years and flexible spending accounts for child care expenses, allowing service members to set aside 5000 pre tax dollars.

Find out more at military.com

DECA Goes Purple for Military Children

The month of the military child is in full swing, and the commissary is calling on its tiniest customers to partake in a fun contest! DECA is hosting an art contest for little artists pre k through 12 to show off their skills, win some kinder eggs, and celebrate the month that is all about them.

The contest is titled “The World We Travel” and kiddos are encouraged to make a piece portraying their favorite place the military has taken their family. One winner from each commissary will be selected in three categories pre-kinder to 4th grade, 5th to 8th grades and 9th to 12th grades.

To enter, grab a form at the commissary guest services desk or go online at http://www.commissaries.com/military-child-month.

Entries will be accepted from the first day of April to the last.

Blue Angel Flies High Over Glass Ceiling 

Look out boys, there’s a new angel in blue! Lt. Amanda Lee has joined the naval blue angels, being the first woman to earn a coveted spot on the show team. Lee enlisted in the navy in 2007 and earned her commission in 2013. She has served in two combat deployments on the aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman.

Find out more at military times.com

You can check out more of this week’s top stories here.

Thank You

Thank you for tuning into this week’s episode. Please leave a five-star rating and review on Apple podcasts, then send us a screenshot of your review to hello@missionmilspouse.org or DM us on Facebook or Instagram @missionmilspouse to receive a special in-real-life gift as a thank you on behalf of MM. We appreciate your engagement and support.

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