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Happy Military Appreciation Month

This week, we’re celebrating three things: Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Mother’s Day, and the full manuscript of The Military Spouse Benefit Plan! Now available to our subscribers for free.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day

To express my appreciation, I’ve dedicated the last year and a half to writing a book to ensure that military spouses know they have options to protect the pension they earned for their service, too.

Preview Table of Contents

That’s not counting the years before I even knew I was going to write it. I’ve been trying to understand this gap since the summer of 2019, when my podcast began. If you take nothing else from this post, humor me: read the introduction and the first chapter. Why? Because…

It’s your pension, too.

You know this. I know this. And your power to decide how to protect it starts with knowing you have a say in the SBP decision.

To get your free download, simply visit the footer of my latest newsletter, or subscribe to the podcast, and it will arrive in your welcome email.

I appreciate you.

Happy Military Appreciation Month. Happy Military Spouse Appreciation Day, and happy Mother’s Day.

— Jen

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To wrap up, Jen reflects on the following:

• What it felt like recalling her military child life before becoming a Gold Star daughter

• The theme of choosing with childlike wonder and adventure and how it relates to military spouses going through military retirement

• The release of the latest chapters of The Military Spouse Benefit Plan

A Round Up of MOMC Posts:

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Part of it was my teacher, who was also my godmother, my Sunday school teacher, and my knitting and crocheting instructor. While dad was deployed and mom was working, my fourth-grade teacher was my favorite adult to be around. She also, very openly, treated me as her favorite student.

That year, she took us on 13 field trips. Thirteen. At the end of the year, our big class project was to create a booklet documenting every single one. I loved that assignment. It impressed upon me the importance of documenting cherished experiences.

Otherwise, I don’t remember most of the trips today. But I do remember one.

The chocolate factory. 🍫

I remember walking in and feeling like I had stepped into a completely different world. Assembly lines stretched out in every direction, chocolates emerging, being wrapped, boxed, and sent on their way, all without anyone touching them! The machinery felt almost impossibly advanced to me. I remember thinking we probably shouldn’t be standing this close. But I couldn’t look away.

At the end of the tour, we stopped at the souvenir shop. I bought a cute miniature gumball machine, shaped like one of those arcade claw games, where you maneuver a hook to try to capture a gumball and drop it into the slot. It was my most cherished toy that I kept for years, a reminder of the best field trip ever.

Today, I can’t recall the name of the factory.

But I still remember that feeling of walking into a place completely outside of anything I knew, and just taking it all in. To that little girl: that sense of wonder, adventure, and excitement never left you. And every time you step into a whole new world, you get to feel it all over again.

Happy Month of the Military Child. 💜

— Jen

I went by myself.

Again, pretty young, living off base, and going off on my own.

I biked through tunnels carved into mountains, one after another. I passed through a train station, and once the light changed colors for pedestrians to cross, I biked over the tracks, noticing how amazingly smooth they were, nothing like I had ever biked over before.

The road kept going, and so did I. I passed things I couldn’t name, in a foreign language I didn’t speak, in a country of my dad’s current duty station. Yet, none of it slowed me down.

I don’t even know how long the trip took. But I wasn’t worried. It didn’t even occur to me to be. It felt like the greatest adventure of my life.

When I finally arrived at the gate, I proudly flashed my military ID card. I noticed that the guard looked past me, as though to see if my parents were right behind me. Despite his confusion, he let me pass through.

I don’t remember how I found my parents after that. Maybe the front gate notified them somehow, concerned that a little girl had arrived at the base alone. But when we reunited, they had to ask, “How did you get here?!”

That’s when I very proudly told my story.

In hindsight, I was unaware of the rigidity of military life. All I had was my sense of adventure and an unabashed curiosity. As a military kid, I never had to question my safety. I was just... free to wonder and explore.

Today, when life gets hard, or I catch myself making decisions way too seriously, I try to tap back into that childlike wonder. Remembering that I was “that kid,” the kid who got on her bike without a second thought, a little explorer simply eager to discover what else the world had to offer.

Happy Purple Up Day & Month of the Military Child. 💜

— Jen

Living on base felt no less normal than suburban life. It was easy and safe without question to visit and spend time with friends living in townhouses or the towers.

And when my friends moved, we did what kids did before email and social media: we mailed each other postcards. 💌

It was normal to have a PO Box as an address, and dropping off mail at the post office was joyful for me.

Then one day, one of my thoughtfully put-together postcards came back…

“Return to Sender”

One by one, the friends I stayed in touch with seemed to have disappeared. Until our family moved, too. And that was that.

At the time, I just accepted it. Military life moved on. I don’t think I had the capacity to process it as a loss. It was just... what happened. 🤷🏻‍♀️

I imagine it’s easier for military kids today to stay in touch, thanks to social media. But I wonder if the conditioning feels the same: that long-term, in-person friendships are temporary.

Looking back as an adult, I can see how that shaped the way I make and maintain friendships. But for my younger self, the one who maybe didn’t want those friendships to disappear so soon, I’d say this:

Don’t worry, there will be more options for staying in touch with friends soon enough.

Happy Month of the Military Child. 💜

— Jen

Did you know? Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger made April the Month of the Military Child in 1986, according to Purple Up USA.

As an adult, I’ve often glossed over this month. But now, I figured I’d take this time to go down memory lane to appreciate the community that raised me and how it’s led me to this podcast and writing The Military Spouse Benefit Plan.

To be honest, I have vivid and fond memories of my upbringing. I can visualize them so clearly in my mind, even decades later. But somehow, I’m having a hard time writing about it.

And you know what? I’m going to say that it’s okay to start off the month this way!

So for now, here’s a past episode of two adults reflecting on their upbringing as military children (Episode 041):

And maybe in the coming weeks, I’ll be able to share more in writing (or on the podcast, of course). 🎙

Happy Month of the Military Child! 💜

— Jen

Fun facts about the Month of the Military Child:

• There are more than 1.6 million military children who face many challenges and unique experiences as a result of their parents’ service.

• While military members serve around the world, we often forget the challenges faced by their children. Military families move on average every two to three years, impacting military children through changing schools and support networks.

Check out the support and resources available for military children and parents on the U.S. Department of War website.

Learn More

Jen here! 👋🏽 I now have new chapters available for my upcoming book!

Here’s what you’ll learn about in the available chapters:

• The difference between having and wanting to choose for post-military life.

• Cognitive dissonance: the uncomfortable feeling you get when two things you think, believe, or do don’t match.

• How we strive to have one less spouse say, “How come no one told me about this?”

• What a military spouse’s notarized signature really represents when deciding on the SBP.

• Calculating your retiree’s pension and how much of the SBP will protect it.

• Free download of Scott R. Tucker’s book, Don’t Forget Your War Chest, a retiree’s guide to understanding the SBP decision.

Subscribe now

Already subscribed?

Simply check the footer of our latest newsletter to read the latest chapters of The Military Spouse Benefit Plan now!

In Part 1 of 2 of our conversation, we discussed:

• What is energy work?

• Why are we in the right time and generation to embrace energy work?

• Who can benefit from energy work?

• At what age do we become disconnected from our internal language, and how is military transition an opportunity to reconnect with it?

• How to identify patterns that may be holding us back from feeling whole, safe, and supported today.

• How integrating energy work into your life and being more inquisitive can be of great benefit to you.

Now in Part 2 of 2 of our conversation, we discuss:

• How does one begin energy work?

• The benefits of stillness and slowing down long enough to hear yourself.

• Tips on how to build your nervous system relief over time.

• Why building and taking the time to learn who you are is so important.

• How energy work can serve you through military retirement.

• When Candice knew she wanted to be a root cause practitioner and her full-circle moment.

This concludes our conversation with Candice Van Dertholen! Thanks for listening! 🎙

Connect with Candice Van Dertholen (Candice Elizabeth)

• https://heal.me/candice

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicevandertholen

• https://instagram.com/candice_elizabeth.co

• https://substack.com/@candicevandertholen

Resources Mentioned

• On Assimilation: A Transition from War book by Leo Jenkins

• Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us book by Susan Magsamen & Ivy Ross

• Improving Military Mental Health: Spiritune teams up with Blue Star Families - https://www.spiritune.com/blog/improving-military-mental-health-spiritune-blue-star-families

Past Episodes Mentioned

We’re excited to welcome Candice Van Dertholen back to the show to answer your questions!

But first…

Updates!

• If this is your first time here, please subscribe at INSIDETHEFORT.COM to get weekly updates on the show, regardless of whether or not I publish a public podcast episode. 🎙

• Reason being, I’m expanding my content from podcasting to blog posts, YouTube videos, exclusive content, and simple newsletter updates! 📰

• I finished the latest draft of my book! I cut down the last draft by 10 chapters, lol. More updates soon!

Now, let’s talk Energy Work with Candice Van Dertholen

In Part 1 of 2 of our conversation, we discuss:

• What is energy work?

• Why are we in the right time and generation to embrace energy work?

• Who can benefit from energy work?

• At what age do we become disconnected from our internal language, and how is military transition an opportunity to reconnect with it

• How to identify patterns that may be holding us back from feeling whole, safe, and supported today.

• How integrating energy work into your life and being more inquisitive can be of great benefit to you

• How does one begin energy work?

Part 2 of our conversation, the final part, releases next Thursday! Stay tuned! 🎙

Connect with Candice Van Dertholen (Candice Elizabeth)

• https://heal.me/candice

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicevandertholen

• https://instagram.com/candice_elizabeth.co

• https://substack.com/@candicevandertholen

Past Episodes Mentioned

First and foremost, I have a guest interview coming out next Thursday! So stay tuned! 🎙 (Hint: It’s a returning guest, woohoo!)

Secondly, I just completed the most updated draft of my book, The Military Spouse Benefit Plan, and I’m mentally spent. 😮‍💨📚 So…

Thirdly, here is Part 3 of our interview strategy discussion for senior military leaders on Military Retirement Blueprint with Scott & Mike! We’ve gotten positive feedback for these discussions, so I figured I'd keep sharing them here! 😄

Interview Strategy Part 3: Make It About Them

In Part 1, we covered when the interview really starts.

In Part 2, we focused on execution inside the interview.

In Part 3, we address one of the most important, and most overlooked, shifts senior military leaders must make: make your interviews about the hiring managers, not about you!

Many candidates walk into interviews trying to demonstrate everything they’ve accomplished. But civilian hiring managers aren’t evaluating rank—they’re evaluating relevance.

The interview isn’t a single event, it’s a process. And preparation and clarity matter far more than seniority.

Watch Now

Resources Mentioned

US VetWealth: https://usvetwealth.com/

Blue Water Advisors: https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

P.S. to our subscribers: We’re now accepting pre-interviews for future guests! If you have a new opportunity or idea to share with our seasoned spouses and retirees about post-military life, we want to hear about it!

Subscribe now

Already Subscribed? Check the footer of our latest email to learn more.

I’m taking another week off from podcasting to focus on you know what. 📚

This is always a great opportunity to remind you all of the amazing team I work with at US VetWealth, along with our partners such as Blue Water Advisors, to serve our senior military leaders!

Check out Scott and Mike’s latest live show on Military Retirement Blueprint!

Best,

Jen

P.S. to our subscribers: We’re now accepting pre-interviews for future guests! If you have a new opportunity or idea to share with our seasoned spouses and retirees about post-military life, we want to hear about it! Check the footer of our latest email to learn more.

Subscribe now

Note: First time here? Check out Part One of this Interview Series!

In this continuation of our interview strategy discussion, Scott and Mike go beyond preparation and into execution.

Senior military leaders bring deep experience to the table—but civilian hiring managers evaluate differently than promotion boards or command selections.

In Part 2, we unpack:

• How to avoid over-answering

• How to translate military impact into business results

• Why clarity beats complexity

• The importance of conversational delivery

• How to maintain momentum—even if you don’t get the job

If you’re already interviewing—or preparing to—this episode will help you tighten your message, increase clarity, and communicate at the level expected of senior leaders.

Watch Now: Winning the Interview

About Military Retirement Blueprint

After decades of service, transitioning from active duty isn’t just about landing your next job—it’s about defining success on your own terms.

If you’re a senior military leader (O-5, O-6, or beyond), you already know your transition looks different from standard advice.

You’re stepping from a structured promotion system into an at-will job market where networking, positioning, and clarity matter more than rank.

At Military Retirement Blueprint, we provide real conversations about:

• Career strategy and interviews

• Financial planning and retirement decisions

• Expanding your professional network

• The mindset shifts required to succeed outside the military

Join Mike Wallace and Scott Tucker—who have guided over a thousand senior leaders through transition—as they share practical insight to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and career strategy.

Subscribe to YouTube

Resources Mentioned

US VetWealth: https://usvetwealth.com/

Blue Water Advisors: https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

First time here? Here’s the transcript for our relaunch with Keyani!

[00:00:00] Jen Amos: All right. Hey everyone. Welcome to Inside the Fort by US Vet Wealth. This is the private podcast of Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth. The short link to our podcast is INSIDETHEFORT.COM and I am really excited. I’ve had a private podcast for the show for quite some time.

But ever since I went off season and then I came back like last fall of 2025, I was trying to think in the back of my mind, like, how could I bring back the private podcast? And the short story is that if you’re an entrepreneur it helps having other entrepreneurial friends. So I’ve decided that while my public podcast is gonna be focused on obviously what I’m offering, and whoever guests come on my show, what they’re offering.

The private podcast, and I haven’t come up with a phrase for this yet... but for now it’s shoot the you-know-what? But basically this is to chill with, go behind the scenes, hang out in the living room, take off your shoes, just relax and chat with fellow entrepreneur friends.

So I’m excited to have Keyani kick this off with me. So Keyani, welcome to my private podcast.

[00:01:06] Keyani: Hi everybody. Hello Jen. I’m happy to be back.

[00:01:11] Jen Amos: Yes. And I figured we can share with people if they’re like, oh, how did Jen and Keyani meet? From what I recall, I was working with Tricia from The Rosie Network to coordinate guests for Holding Down the Fort.

And I had noticed that you were contributing a lot helping compile the list of guests to be on my show. And that’s my first impression, early on. And then as time went on, like we stayed in touch. Tell us a little bit about, I guess like our initial engagement or your impression of that, and then what has compelled you to continue being my friend?

[00:01:45] Keyani: Like you said, you were trying to compile a list through Tricia and so I actually worked for The Rosie Network as one of their chapter leads. And what that means is I just helped facilitate the entrepreneurial courses for that program. And whenever again, we would have people graduate, the whole point was to get them to come on podcast as both for a partnership exchange. And so I would always be telling my people, and even other people’s classes, like if I got a chance to go and help them and speak with them, speak to their classes, I’d be like, look, you wanna do this? It’s gonna help you.

Don’t be scared. It doesn’t matter if you got everything together. That’s not the point. You just need to get your name out there. So that’s, yeah, that’s how it came about. Like I understood the value of it. Also coming on myself as a guest initially somebody who had finished the program and somebody that was also working for the program at the time.

So that was our initial connection. And I think we laughed so much that first time because I kept saying, “ and then, and then.” Yeah.

[00:02:54] Jen Amos: Yeah.

[00:02:55] Keyani: Yeah. So yeah, that’s pretty much how we started. You gotta go listen to the other episodes and know why we kept saying that.

[00:03:02] Jen Amos: Yes. Yeah. And I’ll include your first interview in the show notes of this episode. But yeah, I’m just really grateful again for that time. Thank you for compiling that list. And I also thought it was interesting if I recall the conversation we had with Ken, we were discussing how interesting it was how like some of the alumni did not pick up the opportunity. I had a long list of alumni that I had reached out to and I had followed up with and I feel like maybe it was like 30% of them actually were open to it. And I just thought, in my mind I’m like, wow, this is like a free platform for them. All they have to do is show up. And I do everything else. I do the post-production, I create the marketing material, and I would think for a new business owner or a new entrepreneur with a new idea and a pitch deck that they would want an opportunity to practice public speaking.

I also acknowledge that everyone is in a different journey when it comes to entrepreneurship. Maybe they needed some time to, let the dust settle after graduation. Who knows? But I always thought that was interesting... you go through this program and wouldn’t you wanna take up this opportunity? It’s really at no cost to you. It helps me because I’m able to have content and I can network with people.

So I just feel like it, in my mind, I felt like it was a win-win. Who knows why, but the opportunity wasn there and the opportunity has passed.

[00:04:24] Keyani: Definitely.

[00:04:25] Jen Amos: Yeah. Now fast forward to today. The reason why I have Keyani on here is because I really just wanna deepen my friendships with other entrepreneurs. In my day-to-day life my husband and I are mainly around like working professionals. And so sometimes.. Sometimes I feel misunderstood, like with my friends who like work the nine to five, or sometimes I feel like they see me as a novelty.

They’re like, oh, like I wanna start a podcast, or I’ve been thinking about starting a business. And I’m glad that I sparked that in some of my friends, but in regards to having people who are on the journey with me, that is something that I have found to be more fruitful for me. To have people who are in the trenches, who are actively building something.

And it doesn’t have to be entrepreneurial, but having friends who are excited to talk about what they’re working on. And so I’m curious for you Keyani, if you like, feel the same way or, share that same struggle of having, let’s say, like-minded friends.

[00:05:21] Keyani: I think yes and no. It was a really bad struggle, I would say initially because I think it was because of me. Because I was still growing into what I needed and I couldn’t figure it out. But I knew that, not that the friends that I had at the time were not helped or not good, and they’ve always been supportive.

If they had to go fight somebody for me, they would do that. But, don’t fight nobody, y’all. I don’t need nobody to fight. But I also think that I was transitioning into new levels of what entrepreneurship looked like for me at the time. So what I had done in the beginning, I was moving from that.

And so a lot of my friends had never experienced that level. And I didn’t either, and there was nobody around me that I could say had done the same thing. So it was me as, as I started searching for what I needed, I think it helped me grow and actually build those authentic relationships with other like-minded entrepreneurs.

So I think it was just initially me not understanding. What I needed because of the new spaces I was elevating to.

[00:06:36] Jen Amos: I love how you say that because it puts the responsibility in your hands. And I know part of this has to do with the Mrs. P framework starting with mindset and responsibility.

So I feel like you embody your framework, which we’ll get to here later. But it’s true. ‘cause it’s like I can’t, like you said, I cannot fault my friends. It’s more about... I didn’t know I needed something different, like I didn’t know I needed to associate with other entrepreneurs.

[00:07:03] Keyani: Yeah.

[00:07:03] Jen Amos: And so I love how you said that because part of doing this private podcast now, yes, we have all the incredible organizations out there to join a cohort and stuff like that. But I think for me I’m looking for the in between now, like the steady friends. Yes, of course we can meet in those settings, but what about the ongoing.

I remember the last cohort I was a part of from this other organization. It was really cool ‘cause I made one friend out of it. And, we also stay in touch like on a monthly or bi-monthly basis just checking in with each other, but like for everyone else... it’s like school, like when you’re done with school, if you’re lucky, like you can stay in touch with a couple of people. But for the most part, like people move on or people’s priorities change. And so for me, I feel like I’m looking for the in between. Yes, I can meet there, but I hope to find, more long-term friendships where it’s not just about meeting in those settings, but more so like checking in to, to check in.

So yeah. What do you think about that?

[00:07:59] Keyani: Yeah. To all of that, because it’s true. I’ll definitely say that. Like I have like my day to day, sometimes I’m like, okay, nope. Not that, that frame won’t work for that one. I need to call that friend, or I need... it’s like I have them. I’m like, okay, no, that, no, they’re not gonna be able to answer that question for me. So it is like one of those, you do need those check-ins. You do need those, my brain is fried, can you see me somebody and help my soul get together. I can definitely say like I said yes and yes to everything you just said.

[00:08:37] Jen Amos: Cool. I love it. I feel like the more concise answers you give the more that I understand our journeys. But thank you for the one word like yes, and yes. That all makes sense. ‘cause it just makes me feel like, okay, I’m not like projecting anything. Like it sounds like you can relate in your own way.

So anyway, that is really the experiment here with this private podcast now is my hope is for anyone that is listening to this that if you’ve been a subscriber for our show for some time now, and maybe you’ve just been lurking, you’ve been casually opening up the emails, but you’ve been meaning to reach out.

And maybe you’re not ready to do a public recording, but you wanna just have more of a casual one like this, then reach out. Reach out. Because I was just saying to a friend at the gym today, I was like, I’m not really a corporate person. I’ve been self-employed for my entire adult life, so I’m the kind of person that wears gym clothes for most of the time, and I have my hair up in a bun.

And when I go to conferences and more important things like, yeah, I’ll dress up. But my outward look really reflects the easygoing person i’ve become. And for anyone that wants to be a little more relaxed in having these kind of conversations, I just want to invite you to be a part of this.

Like obviously Keyani and I could probably talk about a million things and it could just be us. But if you feel like you wanna jump into the conversation, I just wanna invite you to hang out with us. Just kick it with us. Any thoughts about that Keyani?

[00:10:07] Keyani: No, I’m with you. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Come on, join us. Talk about it. Talk it through. Sometimes we just talk it through with us.

[00:10:14] Jen Amos: Yes. Yes. Okay. So with that that is pretty much the introduction to the revamp of this private podcast Inside the Fort. For the public post of this podcast, you will be able to see a very detailed description of what this conversation is about.

But if you want to hear the audio, I mean by the time you’re listening to this you’ve upgraded. But for everyone else, I wanna let them know in the transcript at least that you can have access to the audio commentary by subscribing.

On the surface, if you visit the website INSIDETHEFORT.COM, you’re gonna see a paywall. But I’m gonna let you in the back door and say, so long as you subscribe for free, you will automatically get the welcome email that tells you to upgrade. And I could make this more accessible, but.. I don’t know, Keyani, for me, I just want people to show a little more commitment.

I wanna know that they really wanna be here. Yeah. I want them to know that they really wanna be here and like they see something of value in the show. If I can see just that little effort of upgrading then I know that they see value in this. And more importantly, it gives me an opportunity to maybe reach out to them and hopefully, invite them to the show. I’m just looking for more friends who wanna be a little more committed, like no big deal.

[00:11:27] Keyani: That’s just, I would say that’s just the space that you’re in. Where you are currently, your space, you wanna see a little bit more dedication, especially for where you are, is you don’t want it to be just lackadaisical. You wanna see like the efforts put in. And that’s cool. Yes.

[00:11:44] Jen Amos: Yes. I appreciate your support on that.

Yeah, so that is pretty much it with the call to actions. Now, I just wanna check in with you now, Keyani in regards to the Mrs. P framework. And just in case anyone’s listening to this for the first time, I’ll have Keyani’s links in the show notes of this episode. So you can be like, wait, what is the Mrs. P framework? You’ll have that in the show notes.

But I just figured like last time we caught up, you were giving me the latest update on the framework and who it’s for. So I’m curious if you wanna share the latest updates on Mrs. P framework.

To be continued…

Full transcript and audio available for Insiders!

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Note: Already a free subscriber? Check the footer of our latest newsletter for your free upgrade!

Resources Mentioned

The Rosie Network https://therosienetwork.org/

Connect with Keyani https://keyanisiobhan.com/connect

Check out Keyani’s past episodes

Read more

Yes, I’m taking another week off to focus on book stuff. Lol. Stay tuned for next Thursday!

In the meantime, check out our latest conversation with Mike Wallace of Blue Water Advisors on our main sponsor, US VetWealth, on our YouTube Channel: Military Retirement Blueprint!

Senior military leaders are often told they’re “highly employable.”

But when it comes to civilian interviews, most are underprepared for how early the evaluation starts—and how differently success is measured.

In this episode, Mike Wallace from Blue Water Advisors shares the interview strategies he’s used to help over 500 senior leaders successfully transition into defense contracting and corporate roles.

We discuss:

• When the interview actually begins

• The real anatomy of civilian interviews

• Common interview types and what they’re testing

• How and when to prepare

• How to structure answers using STAR and Past–Present–Future

• Why clarity, brevity, and relevance matter more than detail

• Tools you can use to practice and improve immediately

If you’re within a few years of retirement—or already in the interview cycle—this episode will help you approach interviews with confidence, structure, and intent.

About Military Retirement Blueprint

After decades of service, transitioning from active duty isn’t just about finding your next job—it’s about defining success on your own terms. If you’re a senior military leader preparing for retirement, you already know that your path looks different from the standard advice out there.

You’ve spent your career in a structured environment with a clear progression. Now, you’re stepping into an “at-will” job market where personal branding, networking, and a strong digital presence can matter more than rank. Even if you’ve avoided social media in the past—out of caution or simply not seeing the need—you’re realizing that it plays a key role in post-military career success.

At Military Retirement Blueprint, we provide real talk about post-military career progression. We focus on the decisions that matter most for senior leaders navigating the transition, including:

• Tactical topics like career strategy, interviews, compensation, and financial planning

• Mindset shifts like redefining success, navigating uncertainty, and avoiding common transition traps

Join Mike Wallace and Scott Tucker—experts who have guided over a thousand retiring senior leaders—as they share what actually works in today’s civilian job market. From practical strategies to candid conversations, this podcast is designed to help you navigate your next chapter with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Subscribe Now

I’m taking another week off to focus on my book. 📚

Rest assured, I’ve also been prepping for our upcoming guests! 🎙

I’ve gained so much inspiration since my return to podcasting in September 2025! So much that I’m splitting my book into three parts!

Here’s a sneak peek of the working title and chapters!

The Military Spouse Benefit Plan - Part One:

Be On the Call: A Military Spouse’s First Step Toward Making a Confident and Informed Decision About the Survivor Benefit Plan

• Introduction – A Different Perspective

• One – Reawaken Your Agency

• Two – Set a New Tone for Civilian Life

• Three – Be Informed About the SBP

• Four – Be Confident About the SBP

• Five – Consider a Second Opinion

• Six – Consider Civilian Options

• Seven – Explore Your Options

• Eight – Schedule the Call

• Nine – Be On The Call

• Epilogue – To be revealed!

Note: Yes! Part of the title is inspired by my recent interview. 😉

Can’t wait?

You can always download the current chapters, which also include a free copy of my husband’s book, Don’t Forget Your War Chest (E9, O5, and O6 Editions are available). It is the original book that helps our retirees understand their SBP Alternatives.

Download Now

In the meantime…

Be sure to check out our latest newsletters for our Subscriber Freebies 🎉.

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Robyn’s podcast represents her 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, The ASCEND Collective (TAC), which is dedicated to creating career pathways for veterans, military spouses, and underserved talent through a skills-first approach. At the ASCEND Collective, they believe talent is defined by potential — and that everyone deserves opportunities that value them as a person, recognize their skills, and provide a path to success. Learn more at https://theascendcollective.org/

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It’s been a minute since Jen has had the fortune of being interviewed on someone else’s show!

Together, Robyn and Jen discuss the following:

• How everything changed when Jen became a Gold Star daughter at 10 years old

• How Susan Cain’s book Bittersweet helped Jen channel loss and grief into her work and artistry

• How Jen’s family worked with The Price of Freedom Foundation to publish a book about her late father

• How it’s like working with her husband at US VetWealth

• How retirees find US VetWealth when they are exploring an alternative to the Survivor Benefit Plan

• A different perspective for military spouses to make a confident and informed decision on the Survivor Benefit Plan

• How Jen’s curiosity about military spouses and the SBP decision led to starting Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth podcast

• Jen’s reasoning behind releasing her upcoming book a couple of chapters at a time

Jen’s interview is also available on YouTube, thanks to the ASCENDing Beyond Barriers podcast!

Also available on Spotify!

Listen on Spotify

Please listen to the previous episode 228: Supporting Special Operation Forces (SOF) Spouses During Military Transition with Teresa Shick — Part 1 of 2

Some quick announcements before diving back into our interview:

• Thank you to everyone who attended US VetWealth’s first Post-Military Career Strategy Circle yesterday on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET)!

• More Chapter Releases of Jen’s upcoming book — You’ll get emailed directly if you’ve already subscribed. Otherwise, subscribe now to get your free copy!

• And just for subscribing, you’ll also receive:

  • Podcasting mentorship info for seasoned spouses

  • Free discovery call with Keyani from Ep. 225 and Ep 226.

  • Bonus freebies from future guest collaborations

  • And a free subscription upgrade to become an “Insider” — gain access to Inside the Fort Private Podcast, where Keyani’s Part 3 interview is available!

Subscribe now

Already subscribed? Scroll to the bottom of our latest newsletter to become an Insider now!

We’re excited to continue our conversation with Teresa Shick from the SOF Pillar Foundation to discuss the following:

• When Teresa realized that she could explore options outside of the 30-minute radius of her husband’s duty station, and the time it took before their family felt like civilians.

• What you can expect at the Pillar Foundation retreats, including scholarships for SOF Spouses returning to school.

• Teresa and her family’s ever-evolving journey, even in post-military life.

• Pre-retreat surveys SOF Spouses take so that they have a tailored retreat experience.

• Teresa’s preference to say “It’s our time as a family” rather than a spouse saying, “It’s my time on retirement.”

• Reactions when a spouse is asked, “What do you want?”

• Who Teresa is outside of being a military spouse and the Founder of The Pillar Foundation, and what she proclaimed to her family once her husband retired.

• The number one thing divorced spouses say they needed in hindsight.

• How Teresa is managing life at a relatively slower pace as a civilian.

Learn how your donations go toward directly supporting our SOF Spouses at https://www.sofpillarfoundation.org/donate

Check out Teresa’s previous episodes 94 & 228:

First-time listener?

Get up to speed by checking out episode 227 for a recap of the last season!

We hope you all had a wonderful holiday season! Some quick announcements before introducing our guest:

• US VetWealth’s Post-Military Career Strategy Circle takes place on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET) — RSVP Now by clicking HERE.

• More Chapter Releases of Jen’s upcoming book — You’ll get emailed directly if you’ve already subscribed. Otherwise, subscribe now to get your free copy!

• And just for subscribing, you’ll also receive:

  • Podcasting mentorship info for seasoned spouses

  • Free discovery call with Keyani from Ep. 225 and Ep 226.

  • Bonus freebies from future guest collaborations

  • And a free subscription upgrade to become an “Insider” — gain access to Inside the Fort Private Podcast, where Keyani’s Part 3 interview is available!

Subscribe now

We’re excited to welcome back Teresa Shick from the SOF Pillar Foundation to discuss the following:

• How The Pillar Foundation began as an idea in 2017, when her husband was retiring from the Navy SEALs after 24 years.

• When she gained non-profit status in 2020 for her in-person (keyword: in-person) retreat.

• When she was finally able to execute her mission statement in 2021, she has been steadfast since.

• How The Pillar Foundation supports special operation forces (SOF) spouses, two years before through two years after their husband’s transition.

• When she and her husband went through military transition together, including how they navigated the Survivor Benefit Plan decision.

• And more to come in part 2! Stay tuned next Thursday!

Learn more about The Pillar Foundation: https://www.sofpillarfoundation.org/

For more info on TRICARE for former spouses and The 20/20/20 Rule (referencing timestamp 34:10): https://www.military.com/paycheck-chronicles/2015/09/14/understanding-the-202020-rule

Check out Teresa’s previous episode no. 94:

Start the year right by networking with us at US VetWealth’s Post-Military Career Strategy Circle on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET)

A professional roundtable for senior military leaders, recent retirees, and veteran leaders who want a more straightforward path forward — and a stronger network to walk it with.

This session brings together peers who understand the reality of transitioning from command-level leadership into corporate roles, consulting, entrepreneurship, or federal service. It’s a space to exchange perspectives, compare notes on the job market, and build relationships with people navigating similar challenges.

RSVP Now

Check out episode 227 for a recap of last season!

• Why she returned to podcasting after her one-year break

• Updates on more chapter releases for her upcoming book: The Military Spouse Benefit Plan

• Shoutouts to this season’s guests:

  • Ep. 220 — Stephanie Brown and her SBP Testimonial

  • Ep. 222 & 223 — Kris & Larry with PatriotCare

  • Ep. 225 & 226 — Keyani with Mrs. P Framework (plus bonus episode)

• Free mentorship for seasoned spouses seeking accountability to start a podcast for 2026. To learn more: click here.

• How to become a guest on HDTF: click here.

The show will resume on Thursday, January 8th! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 🎄🎉

P.S. Join us for US VetWealth’s Post-Military Career Strategy Circle on January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET)

A professional roundtable for senior military leaders, recent retirees, and veteran leaders who want a more straightforward path forward — and a stronger network to walk it with.

This session brings together peers who understand the reality of transitioning from command-level leadership into corporate roles, consulting, entrepreneurship, or federal service. It’s a space to exchange perspectives, compare notes on the job market, and build relationships with people navigating similar challenges.

RSVP Now

Military Retirement Blueprint by US VetWealth

Post-Military Career Strategy Circle - January 14th, 2026, 1 PM (ET)

A professional roundtable for senior military leaders, recent retirees, and veteran leaders who want a clearer path forward — and a stronger network to walk it with…

Read more

5 months ago · Scott R. Tucker

Or RSVP now by clicking HERE.

We’re excited to welcome Keyani Washington back to the show to catch up on the following for Part 3 of 3 of her interview:

• We stress the significance of following Keyani’s MRSP Framework in the order mentioned

• How the MRSP Framework applies to your professional and personal life

• Simple steps to get started with Keyani’s “You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal”

How can I listen to Part 3?

1. Subscribe to INSIDETHEFORT.COM.

2. In your welcome email, you’ll see instructions on how to upgrade your subscription for free.

3. If you’re already a free subscriber, scroll down to the footer of our previous newsletters to upgrade now to Insiders!

4. Note: Please save holdingdownthefort@substack.com as a trusted contact. If you don’t receive a welcome email, please check your SPAM folder. Issues? Contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

5. Listen to Part 3 on our private podcast: Inside the Fort by US VetWealth.

Keyani’s Giveaway 🎁

So... I did a thing. I finally spilled the tea on my MRS.P Framework, the one I use to help leaders, professionals, and purpose-driven entrepreneurs, the people I call Difference-Makers, go from “What am I doing” to “Ohh, I got this.”

Whether you’re navigating a transition, launching something new, or just tired of circling the same runway, this framework will give you fresh eyes and focused energy.

The 4 Pillars of MRSP:

M - Mindset → See it. Shift the thoughts and patterns holding you back.

R - Responsibility → Own it. Get clear on what’s yours to carry-and what’s not.

S - Standard → Elevate it. Step into the version of you that’s ready for more.

P - Practice → Execute it. Build the systems and habits that move you forward.

It’s not about doing more-it’s about becoming who your next level requires.

To celebrate, I’m offering a few free discovery calls for listeners who are ready for real clarity and next-step strategy.

Think of it as your business BFF chat, but with strategy, not just venting.

But hey, spots are limited, so if your gut says “this is the sign I needed,” trust that.

🎧 Tune into the episode, then hit that link and grab your spot. I’m ready when you are!

Here’s the link to book now:

Read more

Please listen to the previous episode 225 for part one of Keyani’s interview!

We’re excited to welcome Keyani Washington back to the show to catch up on the following for Part 2 of 3 of her interview:

• A continuation of how ChatGPT can clarify original thoughts and suggest content ideas.

• A final emphasis on Mindset as the first step in the MRSP Framework

• The next two steps in Keyani’s framework: Responsibility and Standard

• Clarification on setting an “inner standard”

• Keyani’s “You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal”

• And more to come!

Part 3 of 3 is now available exclusively to our podcast subscribers!

In the final part of our conversation:

• We stress the significance of following Keyani’s MRSP Framework in the order mentioned

• How the MRSP Framework applies to your professional and personal life

• Simple steps to get started with Keyani’s “You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal.”

How can I listen to Part 3?

1. Subscribe to INSIDETHEFORT.COM.

2. In your welcome email, you’ll see instructions on how to upgrade your subscription for free.

3. Note: Please save holdingdownthefort@substack.com as a trusted contact. If you don’t receive a welcome email, please check your SPAM folder. Issues? Contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

4. Listen to Part 3 on our private podcast: Inside the Fort by US VetWealth.

Check out Keyani’s previous episodes: Ep. 153, Ep. 213, & 225 —

First time here?

Subscribe to INSIDETHEFORT.COM to receive your FREE upgrade to listen to Part 3 of Keyani’s interview!

Subscribe now

Resources Mentioned

• The Rosie Network — https://www.therosienetwork.org/

• You Set the Meaning: 7-Day Journal — https://keyanisiobhan.com/you-set-the-meaning-7-day-journal