Dec 12, 2023
In this episode, two military spouses Michelle Bowler and Shannon Leyko, talk about the importance of embracing individual normality and not conforming to societal standards in one's personal journey, especially in the military community.
A crucial topic is discussed where the speaker shares a personal story of experiencing grief and the importance of taking time to heal and grieve.
The conversation then shifts to welcoming the journey of motherhood, adopting, and raising children as a military spouse.
They also touch on topics like relationships, careers, fitness, living as military spouses, and more.
A key theme in this conversation is learning and relearning that normalcy varies for different people and that's okay.
In the end, embracing your individual journey and having control over your life is what truly matters.
Get Shannon's Book Here: https://amzn.to/3Ri0Jwi https://www.theexpertbeginner.com/
Connect with Shannon: https://www.instagram.com/shannonleyko/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome Back to the Waiting Warriors Podcast
00:14 The Journey of Healing and Reconnecting
01:40 Introducing Guest Shannon Leyko
01:49 Shannon's Life as an Author and Mother
02:22 The Unique Story of Shannon's Family
03:31 The Inspiration Behind Shannon's Book
05:02 Shannon's Personal Journey as a Military Spouse and Lessons
06:40 The Impact of Moving to Alaska Because of the Military
12:01 The Importance of Living in the Moment As A Military Spouse
15:02 The Role of Relationships in Military Spouse Life
18:28 Adoption and Cultural Differences
20:17 Embracing Our Weirdness and Building Relationships as a Military Spouse
20:38 The Struggle of Making New Friends as a Military Spouse
21:29 Overcoming the Awkwardness of New Relationships Between Military Spouses
22:22 The Misconception of Being 'Behind' in Life for Military Spouse
22:43 The Power of Realizing 'Normal' Difficulties of Military Spouse Life
23:27 The Importance of Taking Control of Your Military Spouse Life
24:28 The Struggles and Triumphs of Balancing Motherhood and Career
24:37 The Power of Taking Control and Making Friends
25:25 The Importance of Inviting Yourself and Taking Initiative as a Military Spouse
29:29 The Journey of Losing Weight While Balancing Life
32:15 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Military Spouse
36:34 The Importance of Creating Your Own Normal as a Military Spouse
37:04 The Importance of Celebrating Everyday Life
38:01 The Power of Gratitude and Celebrating Small Wins
41:00 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Military Spouse