Episodes

In this week’s episode of Behind the Camouflage, we sit down with Carolyn Crissman, Chief Executive Officer of the Council for Military Spouse Clubs (CMSC), to talk about the evolving role of spouse clubs in today’s military community. Carolyn shares her own military spouse journey and how she became involved in spouse clubs, eventually stepping into national leadership with CMSC. We discuss what the Council for Military Spouse Clubs is, the support it provides to local clubs and installation l...

Hey, hey, hey listeners! It’s time for another In the Box episode, and this one dives into some of the honest questions that many military spouses think… but don’t always say out loud. In this episode, the BTC team talks about what it feels like when your spouse’s career is automatically treated as more important than your own — and whether wanting both careers to matter puts you “in the box.” We also unpack the age-old question about duty stations: Do we really have zero choice… or is that jus...

In this week’s episode of Behind the Camouflage, we sit down with Megan Fahy, School Liaison Officer aboard Camp Lejeune, to talk about college readiness and admissions for military-connected students. Megan shares what inspired her to create the College Readiness and Admissions Navigation Program and the gaps she saw military families struggling to navigate amid frequent PCS moves, changing schools, and unpredictable timelines. We discuss the unique challenges military-connected students face ...

In Episode 4 of Season 5 of Behind the Camouflage, we sit down with Attiyya Ingram to talk about a topic that impacts every military family — taxes. Attiyya is a military spouse of over 25 years, an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®), Military Qualified Financial Professional (MQFP®), and the founder of Ingram Financial Management, where she has helped thousands of military families stay financially ready through trusted tax preparation and financial education. In this episode, Attiyya brea...

Hey, hey, hey listeners! We’re kicking off Season 5’s first In the Box episode with an honest, open conversation straight from the BTC team. In this episode, we talk through our individual resolutions for 2026 and answer questions about social media and privacy, unpack the realities of making — and sometimes not making — friends within the unit. We also spend time discussing mental health, the importance of checking in, and how we can better support those around us in our community. So, grab y...

In Episode 2 of Season 5 of Behind the Camouflage, the team—alongside our first guest host, Hope Fiorvanti—sit down with Suzanne Dana, Marine Corps spouse and author, to discuss her book, The General’s Wife. The conversation centers on Suzanne’s journey as an author and how her experiences as both a General’s daughter and a General’s wife shaped who she is, her perspective, and the stories she tells in her writing. Give a listen! Learn more about The General’s Wife. <p>The post The General’s ...

Season 5 of Behind the Camouflage is kicking things off with an episode all about positivity — and why it often gets a bad rap. In this conversation, we sit down with Leigh Conant, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), couples therapist, and military spouse, to explore how being “too positive” is frequently misunderstood and why that perception can be harmful. Leigh defines toxic positivity, discusses how positivity impacts mental health, and sh...

In our Season 4 finale of Behind the Camouflage, we sit down with 1stSgt Stacie Black, USMC (Ret) to explore her extraordinary journey through service, leadership, and life in the Marine Corps community. Stacie reflects on her own time in uniform, her transition into becoming a Marine Corps spouse, and the unique perspective gained as the wife of the 19th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Troy Black. She shares how she and Troy met, what those early years of marriage and military life looked ...

Hey, Hey, Hey Listeners! It’s our last In the Box of Season 4 and we’re shutting it down by answering listeners vital questions about situations every military spouse has probably faced and likely felt deep within their soul! The BTC Team dives into conversation on questions about deployment homecomings (and extra visitors during them), the unit holiday potluck, and surviving “Griswold Christmas” energy. And, as a bonus we conclude this episode with some funny and lighthearted talk about some o...

In this episode, the team sits down to have a candid conversation on life after the corps. We lean into conversation with our very own Heather Escamilla to talk about the transition from active duty to retired life. Then we’re joined by special guest Staci Holt, retired Marine Corps spouse and Director of Business Strategy for Military Spouses with Military Affairs at USAA, and a true champion in the military spouse community. Staci opens up about her family’s transition out of the Marine Corps:...

In this episode, we sit down with Kate Horrell—Accredited Financial Counselor®, Chartered Financial Consultant®, Military Qualified Financial Planner®, retired Navy spouse, and mom of four young adults—for a practical and encouraging conversation about preparing teens and young adults for financial success. Kate shares real-world insights from her professional expertise and personal experience, offering guidance that helps families approach college planning with clarity and confidence. Together...

We’re back with another In the Box episode — and this time, we’re celebrating a major milestone: the 250th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps! The BTC team dives into listener questions all about the Marine Corps Birthday — from what to wear and whether it’s okay to bring your kids, to the traditions that make the evening unforgettable. We even share some of our favorite birthday ball memories, gifts, and moments that make this celebration so special. So grab your coffee and join the BT...

In this episode, we sit down with Rear Admiral Carey Cash, Chaplain of the Marine Corps, for a meaningful conversation about connection, community, and shared purpose. Chaplain Cash shares personal stories about how relationships have strengthened him throughout his journey and explores how leaning into connection can bring happiness, resilience, and truth to our lives. Together, we discuss the vital role of community in supporting mental health and suicide prevention, especially within the uni...

This week we’re back with another round of In the Box, where we unpack listener questions and decide whether their choices are “in the box” or a little outside of it. From overhead luggage etiquette and requiring spouse events to be kid-friendly, to celebrating our spouses’ accomplishments, and navigating the chaos of holiday travel, the BTC Team is tackling it all. So grab your coffee and join the BTC Team for a candid and relatable conversation that might just have you asking yourself.. are ...

In this episode of Behind the Camouflage, we sit down with Jill Castilla, Present and CEO of Roger and Citizens Bank of Edmond, for a powerful and emotional conversation about resilience, leadership, and financial readiness. Jill shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming trauma and how she found strength through struggle – offering inspiration for anyone navigating life’s toughest seasons. She also provides timely, practical advice on managing finances through the government shutdown, wi...

In this special breaking news episode, we sit down with Jen Goodale, Director of Military Family and Survivor Policy at the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) to discuss the government shutdown and its impact on military families. Jen breaks down what’s happening, what it means for pay and benefits, and shares practical resources and actions families can take to prepare and find support during this uncertain time. MOAA Call to Action – The Pay Our Troops Act of 2026 (H.R. 5401) <p>...

This week we’re rolling out a special edition of the show: In the Box. Think of it as our way of putting listener questions under the spotlight and deciding whether their choices are “in the box” or… maybe a little outside of it. From Marine Corps birthday ball attendance, to bringing pets to family day, and even the popular debate on the dress code at the PC – we’re weighing in with equal parts humor, honesty. and military spouse real talk. So grab your coffee and join the BTC Team for a candi...

In this episode of Behind the Camouflage, we explore the vital role fitness plays in overall health and readiness. Our team kicks things off with a conversation about our own fitness journeys – the wins, the struggles, and what keeps us moving – before welcoming Nicholas Gounaris, Director of Strength and Conditioning with the Warrior Athlete Readiness and Resilience (WARR) Branch. Together we talk about why fitness matters for military spouses and families and how it impacts overall health and...

On this episode of Behind the Camouflage we’re having a conversation centered on spouse employment—an issue that affects countless military families. The episode opens with Coffee Talk, where our team shares personal stories of building careers while navigating the unique challenges of military life. From frequent PCS moves to gaps in employment and the search for meaningful work, we explore the realities of career-building as a military spouse and the resilience it requires. We’re also joined...

Season 4 is here and we’re kicking things off on Behind the Camouflage with a conversation that’s at the heart of the military community—volunteerism. From Coffee Talk with our team to an inspiring interview with guest Berlinda Castillo, we’re diving into what it means to volunteer, why it is so vital, and how it shapes the lives of military families everywhere. Berlinda’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and a genuine heart for service. She embodies what it means to be a servant leader,...

It’s the season finale of Behind the Camouflage! In this wrap-up episode, Kayla and Krista sit down to reflect on the Home is Where the Marine Corps Sends You series. From favorite moments and lessons learned to the bigger theme of what “home” really means in Marine Corps life, this conversation brings the season full circle. We talk about the resilience and creativity that came through in each story, why sharing these experiences matters to the Marine Corps community, and how spouses—new and s...

In this special episode of Behind the Camouflage, we sit down with Alex Hetherington, Director of the Marine Corps Marathon, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “The People’s Marathon.” Alex shares insights into the enduring legacy of this iconic race, the exciting changes and innovations taking place this year, and how the event has grown into one of the most recognized marathons in the world. From its unique role in honoring the Marine Corps to the community it builds among runners and suppor...

This week on Behind the Camouflage, we’re talking all things Camp Pendleton with Marine Corps spouse Becky Cederholm. We explore the many ways to get involved at a duty station as large and bustling as Camp Pendleton, and dive into the importance of putting yourself out there and building meaningful connections. Whether you’re new to the base or looking to deepen your community ties, this episode offers encouragement and practical tips for making the most of life at Camp Pendleton. Give it a li...

Aloha, Behind the Caoumflage listeners! In this episode we’re headed to the beautiful islands of Hawaii! We’re talking all things island life with Marine Corps spouse Ashley Ammen; from PCSing and housing to schools, local food, travel, and building community—this episode covers what it’s really like to live and thrive in Hawaii. We dive into the realities of island logistics, the joys of everyday life in paradise, and all the ways spouses can connect and feel at home in the Aloha State. Wheth...