In this edition of Dog Tag Diaries, we highlight the incredible journey of Brianna Renner, who transitioned from the world of ballet to the battlefield and now leads the Veterans Yoga Project as its CEO. Listen as Brianna recounts her service, working on cutting-edge avionics, and how her rebellious spirit from the 1980s fueled her inspiration to join the Marines. With touching stories of overcoming gender biases and finding a new path through yoga, this episode covers her transformation and offers insights into the immense benefits yoga provides veterans. As we gear up for Veterans Gratitude Week, find out how you can participate or contribute. This is a must-listen for those curious about the intersections of yoga, military service, and personal growth.

Interested in learning more about Veterans Gratitude Week?

veteransyogaproject.org/vgw24/

Brianna Renner, a Marine Corps veteran, is the CEO of Veterans Yoga Project, where she leads efforts to support veterans' mental and physical health through yoga and mindfulness practices. Before joining the Marines, she was a ballet dancer, and today she continues to share her love for dance by teaching classes. Though her first experience with yoga wasn't love at first sight, she’s now been teaching yoga for over 14 years and has spent a decade bringing yoga to veterans at the VA.

Be sure to check out Veterans Yoga Project and follow Brianna’s journey as she continues to make an impact in the veteran community through yoga and leadership.

Veterans Yoga Project: veteransyogaproject.org

Instagram: @veteransyogaproject

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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.

Join us on "Dog Tag Diaries" as we feature Jessica Quezada, a Marine Corps veteran and the dynamic founder of Libo-risk, a for-profit military retreat company. This episode takes you through Jessica's unique journey from a tumultuous childhood to her role as a Marine combat correspondent.

Hear her candid discussions about the chronic injuries faced by women in the military due to improper equipment and inadequate support. Discover how solo travel and backpacking in Thailand became pivotal in her self-discovery and personal growth. If you're fascinated by stories of resilience, military life, and entrepreneurial spirit, you won't want to miss this compelling episode. Tune in for an inspiring look at overcoming challenges and building a community focused on connection and personal development.

Connect with Jess:

Follow her journey at Libo-Risk.com

Instagram: @LiboRisk

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 compelling episode, we speak with Michelle Struemph, a retired Chief Warrant Officer Five who served an incredible 32 years with the Army National Guard. Michelle shares her inspiring story, from growing up as an adventurous tomboy to becoming the first female to achieve her rank in the Missouri Army National Guard. She reflects on her journey, overcoming personal and professional challenges, including military sexual trauma, and how she found the light through her experiences. Michelle also talks about her newly published book, Living with Trauma, Finding the Light Again, and offers invaluable advice for women considering or currently serving in the military. Tune in for an episode filled with courage, wisdom, and the power of perseverance.

Chief Warrant Officer Five (Retired) Michelle Struemph served 32 years with the Army National Guard, becoming the first female to reach the rank of CW5 in the Missouri Army National Guard. A world-class athlete, she competed internationally in biathlon and pentathlon, and led initiatives to support female soldiers during her military career. Michelle is now an advocate for women veterans and the author of Living with Trauma, Finding the Light Again, where she shares her journey of resilience and healing after surviving Military Sexual Trauma. She continues to inspire through her mentorship and advocacy work.

Tune in to hear Michelle's remarkable journey of courage, resilience, and finding light in the darkest of times. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform!

Connect with Michelle:

LinkedIn: Michelle Struemph

Website: Finding the Light

Books: Living with Trauma, Finding the Light Again – Available now

Contact Information:

For inquiries or to share your story, email us at: finding.the.light526@gmail.com

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.