Community Beyond Camo

Ep 05 - Bridging the Gap: A Deep Dive into Military Spouse Employment with Stanlynn Olcheske

Tune in for a deep dive into the complex world of military spouse employment with our guest, Stanlynn Olczewski. With over 20 years of experience in serving the military community, Stanlynn sheds light on the ins and outs of job searching as a military spouse. She offers real-world advice on building connections, understanding the military lifestyle, and using online resources effectively.  From leveraging your spouse's unit to tapping into the Military Spouse group, this episode is full of actionable tips for military spouses seeking employment. We don't stop at just job hunting tactics, Stanlynn also explores the unique aspects of government service jobs. Learn about the distinctive funding differences between government work and the private sector, and the implications of military spousal preference in the non-appropriated sector. We also tackle the real-life challenges of juggling parenthood and job search, particularly amid a pandemic. Stanlynn, with her extensive HR and LinkedIn knowledge, also shares a handful of pro tips on turning employment gaps into an asset and gaining current work experience with the importance of creating relationships outside work. Stanlynn has generously made herself available for any further employment-related queries, a testament to her commitment to supporting military spouses. Connect with Stanlynn: http://linkedincom/in/stanlynn-olcheske-616789bb [http://linkedincom/in/stanlynn-olcheske-616789bb] Connect with Kristen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenejacobs/ [https://www.instagram.com/kristenejacobs/] Follow: https://www.instagram.com/communitybeyondcamo/ [https://www.instagram.com/communitybeyondcamo/]

Ep 04 - Finding Community and Compassion in Military Life with Sarah Curtis

Let's get into the trenches of what military life truly entails with our special guest, Sarah Curtis. As the creator of a Military Wife's Life blog, Sarah walks us through her personal journey, starting with her courtship days to tying the knot and transitioning into the Air Force. We shed light on the realities of this unique lifestyle and talk about what it's like to shift from ROTC to active duty, all while managing the trials that come with setting roots at a new duty station. We continue our conversation by peeling back the layers of the struggles associated with adjusting to military life. Sarah shares all about the hurdles she faced while finding her footing in a new duty station. She candidly talks about the complexities of military healthcare for a baby and her husband’s role in building their community. Hear from Sarah about the benefits of therapy, nurturing relationships, and leaning on faith during these challenging times. Sarah joins us as an open book offering words of wisdom for new military spouses. Deriving from her experiences of relocating across the country and starting her own business, Sarah emphasizes the importance of self-worth, fostering relationships, and practicing compassion. Connect with Sarah: Website: https://amilitarywifeslife.com [https://amilitarywifeslife.com] Instagram: www.instagram.com/amilitarywifeslife [http://www.instagram.com/amilitarywifeslife] Book: Sitting in the Unknown: A Collection of Poems for Military Loved Ones  https://amilitarywifeslife.com/book/ [https://amilitarywifeslife.com/book/] Connect with Kristen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenejacobs/ [https://www.instagram.com/kristenejacobs/] Follow: https://www.instagram.com/communitybeyondcamo/ [https://www.instagram.com/communitybeyondcamo/]

Ep 03 - Enjoy the Ride: A journey from Hiroshima to Iwakuni

Join me as I pick up where I left off in the last episode - stepping off a plane at Hiroshima Airport, Japan, excited to be reunited with my husband after months apart. Listen as I paint a vivid picture of our journey from Hiroshima to Iwakuni, a city that was new and exciting to me, a place that might as well have been bustling Tokyo. Get lost with us in the unfamiliar streets of Iwakuni, and experience the unexpected kindness and hospitality of the Japanese people that left a lasting impression on me. This tale is more than just a travel story - it's a testament to letting go of control and embracing the ride, a lesson I learned during my time as a military spouse. As we get lost in Iwakuni, we encounter a young Japanese couple who, without speaking English, lead us back to our base. This story is an illustration of trust and letting go of control, two lessons I learned in my journey as a military spouse. The experience left me impressed with the kindness, respect, and culture of the Japanese people. We also explore the idea of being in the moment and trusting that you're where you're meant to be and that everything will eventually fall into place. Tune in next time as I share more about settling into my new home in Japan, my quest for a job, and some of the hilarious mistakes I made with the Japanese language and household chores. Connect with me @kristenejacobs [https://www.instagram.com/kristenejacobs/] Follow @communitybeyondcamo [https://www.instagram.com/communitybeyondcamo/]

Ep 02 - Japan? Let's Do It!

Join me, Kristen Jacobs, as I dive into the rollercoaster journey of my international PCS move to Iwakuni, Japan. It's a tale filled with long layovers, nerve-wracking paperwork, and the emotional reunion with my husband in Hiroshima. I vividly share the grueling physical and emotional challenges, coupled with the constant worries of adapting to a new environment with a medical condition. I've got insights to share, lessons learned, and valuable tips on making the most of a PCS move. This is a story not just about relocating, but about resilience, growth, and the strength of the human spirit. In the second half of this episode, I shift gears and go deeper into the broader concept of PCSing. I'll tackle subjects like the power of preparation, the importance of emotional resilience, and the undeniable need for a supportive community during such a time. Be prepared to jot down some practical strategies and simpler tips to ease your relocation stress. And because your voice matters, I open the floor to hear and discuss your personal PCS stories and future topics you'd like me to cover. So, tune in, and together let's turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Connect with Me @kristenejacobs [https://www.instagram.com/kristenejacobs/] Follow @communitybeyondcamo [https://www.instagram.com/communitybeyondcamo/]

Ep 01 - Through Sickness, Health, and Deployment: Falling in love with a Military Man

Ever fantasized about rekindling a puppy love relationship from your past? What if that whirlwind romance led you on a military spouse journey filled with complexities, surprises, and invaluable life lessons? Join me, your Host - Kristen Jacobs, on this episode, as I recount the profound impacts of this earlier part of my life. I share my journey vulnerably and talk through the secrets of maintaining a healthy relationship. I talk about expressing expectations, compromising, understanding yourself and your boundaries, and most importantly, not losing your identity in your relationship. I navigate the intricacies of keeping love alive even when the government plays a significant role in your life as a military spouse. Plus, I also touch on the critical subject of abuse and stress the importance of seeking help. This episode is a friendly reminder that no journey is easy but each part of our lives serves as a lesson for our future selves. So stay tuned on this episode of Community Beyond Camo and follow to listen in as this story unfolds. Connect with Kristen @kristenejacobs [https://www.instagram.com/kristenejacobs/] Follow @communitybeyondcamo [https://www.instagram.com/communitybeyondcamo/]