Join us on Dog Tag Diaries as Kim sits down with Alejandra Hernandez, a Marine Corps veteran whose story is a powerful testament to resilience and authenticity. In this episode, Alejandra reflects on her challenging childhood, serving during the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" era, and the pivotal role that cooking played in her military life. Discover how Ale navigated the complexities of her sexuality and the obstacles she faced, including harassment and relationship difficulties, all while maintaining honor and commitment. She also shares her journey toward personal healing and her impactful work with The Road Home Program, which offers free mental health care to veterans and their families. Don't miss Ale's inspiring advice for current and aspiring military women.

Alejandra Hernandez is a Marine Corps veteran, outdoor enthusiast, and advocate for veterans. Serving during 2005-2009, the don’t ask don’t tell era, she gained invaluable skills and experiences that continue to shape her life. Today, Alejandra channels her passion into helping fellow veterans through The Road Home Program, which provides care and resources for those navigating the challenges that come from military life. When she’s not working, Alejandra enjoys bouldering, top rope climbing, snorkeling, and traveling.

Connect with Alejandra:

• LinkedIn: Alejandra Hernandez
• Learn More About The Road Home Program: theroadhomeprogram.org

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 powerful episode of Dog Tag Diaries, Host Kim welcome Darci Escandon, a woman of extraordinary resilience and transformation. Darci's story spans a tumultuous childhood as a military daughter, dealing with trauma, abuse, bullying, and even homelessness. Learn how Darci channels her experiences into training service dogs for veterans and advocating for mental health and PTSD awareness. Hear her recount the intense and sometimes heartbreaking moments that shaped her, including the challenges of growing up in a military household and battling complex PTSD. This episode promises to inspire you to face your own challenges with courage. Don't miss out!

Darci Escandon is a passionate advocate for veterans and service animals, drawing from her own challenging experiences growing up in a military household. Despite the hardships she has faced, Darci has dedicated her life to supporting others, from training her and her husband's service dog to helping veterans access emotional service animals ESA and service dog programs. Her knowledge of ESA and her knack for solving problems with compassion and creativity make her a force for good in her community.

Connect with Darci:

• Facebook: Service Dog Nation TX
• Empowering veterans and promoting mental health by connecting them with life-changing service dogs. We advocate for rescue dogs and raise awareness about their transformative power in healing. IGY6—no veteran should face their battles alone.
• Instagram: @finn_the_service_dragon

Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about supporting service dog programs for veterans through Darci’s work.
• Explore mental health resources and support for those dealing with trauma and PTSD.

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.

This episode of Dog Tag Diaries features the amazing Amanda Huffman, who made waves by creating the first podcast focused on women veterans. Amanda recounts her compelling journey from an Air Force civil engineer to a storyteller, sharing tales of military life that are both inspiring and educational. Get a sneak peek into her deployment in Afghanistan, where Amanda's interactions with the local population offered eye-opening cultural insights. She also talks about her book, mentorship attempts, and the value of organizations like LinkedIn for veteran connections. Host Kim and Amanda explore the essential support networks for women veterans and Amanda's unwavering mission to empower others to discover their voice.

Amanda Huffman is a former Air Force Civil Engineer, a military spouse, and the creator of the Women of the Military podcast. Amanda served in the Air Force from 2007 to 2013, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Today, she is a passionate advocate for women in the military, inspiring the next generation through her podcast and her book, A Girl's Guide to Military Service. When she's not working, Amanda is a mom of two boys, an avid runner training for a marathon, and enjoys spending time in her garden or reading.

Interesting Facts About Amanda:

• She ran two half marathons while pregnant and is currently training for a full marathon.
• She’s married to a Space Force officer and is a proud mom of two boys.
• Amanda combines her military background with her passion for storytelling to empower women in the armed forces.

Resources and Links:

• Amanda’s Website: www.airmantomom.com
• Podcast: Women of the Military

Social Media:

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

Books:

• Women of the Military
• A Girl’s Guide to Military Service

Call to Action:

Don’t forget to check out Amanda’s podcast, Women of the Military, and her book, A Girl’s Guide to Military Service. Follow her on social media and visit her website for more resources and inspiring stories!

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.