The OWLS Podcast Fri, 04 Sep 2026 09:02:07 -0400 https://theowlspodcast.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 The OWLS Podcast yes 85ea45b2-505d-5130-80ee-9e9aaee2b9c7 OWLS Staff episodic false The Officer Women's Leadership Symposium (OWLS) convenes experts, thought leaders, and innovators with members of the military, government, and veteran community to explore emerging trends, strengthen skills, and transform observations into actionable insights to lead positive change. 


Our 2026 theme - Learn - Connect - Act - emphasizes our mission to build skills, grow networks within our community, and take action together. 


If you would like to participate in OWLS "live" or any of the other excellent offerings by AcademyWomen, go to https://academywomen.org/.


The views expressed by AcademyWomen, OWLS speakers and audience members are our own and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Department of Defense.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) OWLS Staff https://storage.buzzsprout.com/wnrockpzbq1f5fpqmuy0z78b9605?.jpg The OWLS Podcast https://theowlspodcast.buzzsprout.com Replay Ep: "Salute to Service" panel with the Washington Mystics - July 16, 2026 Replay Ep: "Salute to Service" panel with the Washington Mystics - July 16, 2026 In case you missed it — the recording is now live!

Our "Salute to Service" panel, Redefining Success: Leading and Performing in Shifting Paradigms, brought together an incredible group of women leaders to share their journeys through military service, entrepreneurship, and beyond:

🎖️ Jennifer Coleman — USNA Class of 2022, Surface Warfare Officer
🎖️ Kelsey Minato — USMA '16, U.S. Army Veteran, Wharton MBA Candidate
🎖️ Elexa Orrange-Allen — Founder & CEO, West Point Graduate
🎖️ Alicia McKenzie — Author, Entrepreneur, and Nonprofit Founder
🎖️ Beth Kroman — Defense and National Security Investor

Moderated by Alycen McAuley, Chief Business Officer, Washington Mystics, their conversation on leadership, resilience, and redefining success is one you won't want to miss.

]]> In case you missed it — the recording is now live!

Our "Salute to Service" panel, Redefining Success: Leading and Performing in Shifting Paradigms, brought together an incredible group of women leaders to share their journeys through military service, entrepreneurship, and beyond:

🎖️ Jennifer Coleman — USNA Class of 2022, Surface Warfare Officer
🎖️ Kelsey Minato — USMA '16, U.S. Army Veteran, Wharton MBA Candidate
🎖️ Elexa Orrange-Allen — Founder & CEO, West Point Graduate
🎖️ Alicia McKenzie — Author, Entrepreneur, and Nonprofit Founder
🎖️ Beth Kroman — Defense and National Security Investor

Moderated by Alycen McAuley, Chief Business Officer, Washington Mystics, their conversation on leadership, resilience, and redefining success is one you won't want to miss.

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-19633548 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 17:00:00 -0400 2989 2 10 full false OWLS x YSMMF Collab: You Should Meet Our Friend Andrea Reichwald OWLS x YSMMF Collab: You Should Meet Our Friend Andrea Reichwald In this episode from our sister podcast, You Should Meet My Friend, meet Andrea Reichwald!

Elisabeth knows her from the Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) where she leads the DC chapter, and shortly she will become the Online chapter lead. 

The mission of ASAP is to provide arts classes to those serving in the military, veterans, their families and care givers to combat the challenges and isolation of military service. ASAP classes combat that isolation. Through comedy, story telling, improv, art, photography, musical performance (and many more) they provide a fun and vibrant community.

It's clear that Andrea enjoys her work with ASAP, and is helping encourage Missy to sign up for the next stand up comedy class :-)

Andrea is a delight - enjoy!

]]> In this episode from our sister podcast, You Should Meet My Friend, meet Andrea Reichwald!

Elisabeth knows her from the Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) where she leads the DC chapter, and shortly she will become the Online chapter lead. 

The mission of ASAP is to provide arts classes to those serving in the military, veterans, their families and care givers to combat the challenges and isolation of military service. ASAP classes combat that isolation. Through comedy, story telling, improv, art, photography, musical performance (and many more) they provide a fun and vibrant community.

It's clear that Andrea enjoys her work with ASAP, and is helping encourage Missy to sign up for the next stand up comedy class :-)

Andrea is a delight - enjoy!

]]> YSMMF Podcast Buzzsprout-19475860 Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:00:00 -0400 3666 2 9 full false OWLS x YSMMF Collab: You Should Meet Our Friend Beth Jarvis OWLS x YSMMF Collab: You Should Meet Our Friend Beth Jarvis In this episode from our sister podcast You Should Meet My Friend,  we chatted with Beth Jarvis. Beth and Elisabeth met along the sidelines of soccer and basketball when our daughters were in high school. Beth is an Army vet, an Army brat, and an Army spouse. Like many military spouses, Beth has worked both traditional jobs and for many volunteer organizations that support children and military family members. 

After attending Georgetown and earning a graduate degree in communications, she now works for the Microsoft Military Affairs team, managing the relationships with all base organizations involved in supporting Microsoft Software and System Academies. 

One of the reasons we wanted to interview Beth is that there are two things that she is incredibly skilled at: experiencing everything that Washington DC has to offer (she is a Vet Tix power user) and making and keeping friends. We know you will enjoy this great conversation!

]]> In this episode from our sister podcast You Should Meet My Friend,  we chatted with Beth Jarvis. Beth and Elisabeth met along the sidelines of soccer and basketball when our daughters were in high school. Beth is an Army vet, an Army brat, and an Army spouse. Like many military spouses, Beth has worked both traditional jobs and for many volunteer organizations that support children and military family members. 

After attending Georgetown and earning a graduate degree in communications, she now works for the Microsoft Military Affairs team, managing the relationships with all base organizations involved in supporting Microsoft Software and System Academies. 

One of the reasons we wanted to interview Beth is that there are two things that she is incredibly skilled at: experiencing everything that Washington DC has to offer (she is a Vet Tix power user) and making and keeping friends. We know you will enjoy this great conversation!

]]> YSMMF Podcast Buzzsprout-19475845 Fri, 24 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 2939 2 9 full false OWLS x YSMMF Collab: You Should Meet Our Friend Phyllis Wilson OWLS x YSMMF Collab: You Should Meet Our Friend Phyllis Wilson In this episode from our sister podcast You Should Meet My Friend, we chat with Phyllis Wilson.

Phyllis is President of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation – the only major national memorial honoring the 3 Million women who have defended America from the Revolutionary War to today.

Phyllis served 37 years in the Army as a Military Intelligence Voice Intercept Operator. She has served around the globe – visiting more than 35 countries – in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and North America. She has been mobilized numerous times to shoulder the duties of defense of the nation and has deployed to Iraq several times as an Intelligence Analyst with Special Operations.

If we could sum up Phyllis in one word it is: indefatigable! You can feel her energy in this episode!

]]> In this episode from our sister podcast You Should Meet My Friend, we chat with Phyllis Wilson.

Phyllis is President of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation – the only major national memorial honoring the 3 Million women who have defended America from the Revolutionary War to today.

Phyllis served 37 years in the Army as a Military Intelligence Voice Intercept Operator. She has served around the globe – visiting more than 35 countries – in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and North America. She has been mobilized numerous times to shoulder the duties of defense of the nation and has deployed to Iraq several times as an Intelligence Analyst with Special Operations.

If we could sum up Phyllis in one word it is: indefatigable! You can feel her energy in this episode!

]]> Buzzsprout-19475823 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400 4038 2 8 full false AW Book Club with Dr Lena Andrews - June 9, 2026 AW Book Club with Dr Lena Andrews - June 9, 2026 VALIANT WOMEN is the story of the 350,000 American women who served in uniform during World War II. These incredible women served in every service branch, in every combat theater, and in nearly two-thirds of the available military occupations at the time. They were pilots, codebreakers, ordnance experts, gunnery instructors, metalsmiths, chemists, translators, parachute riggers, truck drivers, radarmen, pigeon trainers, and much more.

LENA ANDREWS is the author of Valiant Women: The Extraordinary American Servicewomen Who Helped Win World War II and an Associate Research Professor at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy.

Shout outs during the episode:

Learn about Lena: University of Maryland and Author
Dr Margaret Chung, WWII Hero

Recording veteran stories: Library of Congress Veteran History Project and Women's Military Memorial

Upcoming AW Events to include the Sept 17 Career Coaching Workshop
Mystics We Salute Her event July 16: 

]]> VALIANT WOMEN is the story of the 350,000 American women who served in uniform during World War II. These incredible women served in every service branch, in every combat theater, and in nearly two-thirds of the available military occupations at the time. They were pilots, codebreakers, ordnance experts, gunnery instructors, metalsmiths, chemists, translators, parachute riggers, truck drivers, radarmen, pigeon trainers, and much more.

LENA ANDREWS is the author of Valiant Women: The Extraordinary American Servicewomen Who Helped Win World War II and an Associate Research Professor at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy.

Shout outs during the episode:

Learn about Lena: University of Maryland and Author
Dr Margaret Chung, WWII Hero

Recording veteran stories: Library of Congress Veteran History Project and Women's Military Memorial

Upcoming AW Events to include the Sept 17 Career Coaching Workshop
Mystics We Salute Her event July 16: 

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-19327462 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0400 3236 2 7 full false Leveraging LinkedIn: Power Your Next Move (May 19, 2026) Leveraging LinkedIn: Power Your Next Move (May 19, 2026) Re-listen to this workshop to learn from Alex Verhulst (Leidos) and Kristen Rivera about leveraging LinkedIn to shape your professional narrative, expand your network, and unlock new career opportunities. 

Whether you’re exploring a career transition, seeking advancement, or working to grow your professional presence, this interactive session will guide you through practical ways to build a compelling profile, communicate your personal brand, and engage with the right networks to support your career goals. 

What to Expect: 
- Insights for strategically using LinkedIn to advance your goals
- Tips to build your profile and drive engagement with your posts
- Expert ways to interact with others' posts to build visibility and your network

]]> Re-listen to this workshop to learn from Alex Verhulst (Leidos) and Kristen Rivera about leveraging LinkedIn to shape your professional narrative, expand your network, and unlock new career opportunities. 

Whether you’re exploring a career transition, seeking advancement, or working to grow your professional presence, this interactive session will guide you through practical ways to build a compelling profile, communicate your personal brand, and engage with the right networks to support your career goals. 

What to Expect: 
- Insights for strategically using LinkedIn to advance your goals
- Tips to build your profile and drive engagement with your posts
- Expert ways to interact with others' posts to build visibility and your network

]]> The OWLS Podcast Buzzsprout-19206714 Tue, 19 May 2026 21:00:00 -0400 3544 2 6 full false Invisible Scripts: Recognizing and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs (Webinar April 30, 2026) Invisible Scripts: Recognizing and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs (Webinar April 30, 2026) In the high-stakes environments of military service and corporate leadership, the most formidable obstacles we face aren't always external—they are the "invisible scripts" we carry within. For many high-achieving women, these limiting beliefs act as a silent tax on potential, causing us to "freeze" or self-censor even when we have the most valuable ideas in the room. 

Listen to our fabulous webinar guest Rachel Dunlap—Founder of Inner Energy Coaching, DLA Energy Director, and Air Force Veteran. Drawing from her personal journey, Rachel will provide a blueprint for dismantling the internal barriers that stall career momentum.

]]> In the high-stakes environments of military service and corporate leadership, the most formidable obstacles we face aren't always external—they are the "invisible scripts" we carry within. For many high-achieving women, these limiting beliefs act as a silent tax on potential, causing us to "freeze" or self-censor even when we have the most valuable ideas in the room. 

Listen to our fabulous webinar guest Rachel Dunlap—Founder of Inner Energy Coaching, DLA Energy Director, and Air Force Veteran. Drawing from her personal journey, Rachel will provide a blueprint for dismantling the internal barriers that stall career momentum.

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-19118350 Sun, 03 May 2026 21:00:00 -0400 3262 2 5 full false Meet the Stuttgart HS Girls Soccer Team Meet the Stuttgart HS Girls Soccer Team Today we have the opportunity for you to meet 4 athletes from the Stuttgart High School girls soccer team. They contacted us to help spread the word about their fundraiser, a goalathon, to support travel, equipment, and team events. As a school serving military families overseas, most of their players come from active-duty or veteran households, and, in their words, being part of this team has been an important way for them to build confidence, resilience, and leadership.

We thought it would be interesting to meet these incredibly mature and put together young women and share our conversation with them. Anna, Regan, Sienna and Sydney were a joy to talk to, and we hope you enjoy the conversation also.

 Their fundraiser kicks off April 9th, and here is the link to contribute - we would love if you could join us in supporting them!

]]> Today we have the opportunity for you to meet 4 athletes from the Stuttgart High School girls soccer team. They contacted us to help spread the word about their fundraiser, a goalathon, to support travel, equipment, and team events. As a school serving military families overseas, most of their players come from active-duty or veteran households, and, in their words, being part of this team has been an important way for them to build confidence, resilience, and leadership.

We thought it would be interesting to meet these incredibly mature and put together young women and share our conversation with them. Anna, Regan, Sienna and Sydney were a joy to talk to, and we hope you enjoy the conversation also.

 Their fundraiser kicks off April 9th, and here is the link to contribute - we would love if you could join us in supporting them!

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18971515 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0400 1206 2 4 full false CCW Career Discovery Webinar - Meet and Mingle with Top Employers CCW Career Discovery Webinar - Meet and Mingle with Top Employers Listen in on this panel discussion from March 19, 2026 featuring leaders from GE Aerospace, Leidos, and Travelers who shared insights about finding your best career fit. This will be helpful for anybody personally considering a job transition or mentoring others seeking new career opportunities.

Listen in to discover:
1) The landscape of opportunities with top employers
2) Insights about corporate culture and programs for transitioning veterans
3) Tips for the job search and hiring process

Submit your profile into the Professional Profile Directory (PPD). This directory will be shared with AcademyWomen partners who may be able to facilitate hiring, a group that includes a wide array of top-caliber corporate, nonprofit and government entities.  

Join AcademyWomen and be in the know for all the great events coming up!

]]> Listen in on this panel discussion from March 19, 2026 featuring leaders from GE Aerospace, Leidos, and Travelers who shared insights about finding your best career fit. This will be helpful for anybody personally considering a job transition or mentoring others seeking new career opportunities.

Listen in to discover:
1) The landscape of opportunities with top employers
2) Insights about corporate culture and programs for transitioning veterans
3) Tips for the job search and hiring process

Submit your profile into the Professional Profile Directory (PPD). This directory will be shared with AcademyWomen partners who may be able to facilitate hiring, a group that includes a wide array of top-caliber corporate, nonprofit and government entities.  

Join AcademyWomen and be in the know for all the great events coming up!

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18881899 Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0400 3436 2 3 full false OWLS: Celebrating 50 Years of Women at the Academies - Episode 2 OWLS: Celebrating 50 Years of Women at the Academies - Episode 2 We gathered together 6 incredible women who have been breaking barriers and connecting women, and this year are helping us celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first female midshipmen and cadets to enter federal military academies! 

This second episode includes alumnae from each service academy, we reflected on the legacy of Public Law 94-106, signed by President Gerald Ford on October 7, 1975 and the evolution of leadership, mentorship, and sisterhood across generations. 

Joanne McCaffrey (USCGA), Marene Allison and Amberle Kerkowski (USMA), Gretchen Cook and Susan Feland (USAFA) and Linda "Postie” Postenrieder (USNA) shared so much insight, memories, and lessons learned we needed two episodes!

Learn more about upcoming celebrations here:

]]> We gathered together 6 incredible women who have been breaking barriers and connecting women, and this year are helping us celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first female midshipmen and cadets to enter federal military academies! 

This second episode includes alumnae from each service academy, we reflected on the legacy of Public Law 94-106, signed by President Gerald Ford on October 7, 1975 and the evolution of leadership, mentorship, and sisterhood across generations. 

Joanne McCaffrey (USCGA), Marene Allison and Amberle Kerkowski (USMA), Gretchen Cook and Susan Feland (USAFA) and Linda "Postie” Postenrieder (USNA) shared so much insight, memories, and lessons learned we needed two episodes!

Learn more about upcoming celebrations here:

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18594014 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:00:00 -0500 2933 2 2 full false OWLS: Celebrating 50 Years of Women at the Academies - Episode 1 OWLS: Celebrating 50 Years of Women at the Academies - Episode 1 We gathered together 6 incredible women who have been breaking barriers and connecting women, and this year are helping us celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first female midshipmen and cadets to enter federal military academies! 

This first episode includes alumnae from each service academy, we reflected on the legacy of Public Law 94-106, signed by President Gerald Ford on October 7, 1975 and the evolution of leadership, mentorship, and sisterhood across generations. 

Joanne McCaffrey (USCGA), Marene Allison and Amberle Kerkowski (USMA), Gretchen Cook and Susan Feland (USAFA) and Linda "Postie” Postenrieder (USNA) shared so much insight, memories, and lessons learned we needed two episodes!

Learn more about upcoming celebrations here:

]]> We gathered together 6 incredible women who have been breaking barriers and connecting women, and this year are helping us celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first female midshipmen and cadets to enter federal military academies! 

This first episode includes alumnae from each service academy, we reflected on the legacy of Public Law 94-106, signed by President Gerald Ford on October 7, 1975 and the evolution of leadership, mentorship, and sisterhood across generations. 

Joanne McCaffrey (USCGA), Marene Allison and Amberle Kerkowski (USMA), Gretchen Cook and Susan Feland (USAFA) and Linda "Postie” Postenrieder (USNA) shared so much insight, memories, and lessons learned we needed two episodes!

Learn more about upcoming celebrations here:

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18591810 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:00:00 -0500 2388 2 1 full false CCW Session 3: Industry Leadership Opportunities and Challenges CCW Session 3: Industry Leadership Opportunities and Challenges In this virtual session from the November 7th Career Coaching Workshop, we brought together a diverse panel of speakers from different industries and in a range of leadership positions. Each shared the joys and challenges they face to help you gain insights that will help you navigate your own life and explore future opportunities. We covered a gamut of topics ranging from financial literacy, pivoting in the face of challenges, taking your military experience to a completely different federal organization, the impact of artificial intelligence and making sure you are ready when the "right door" opens. Led by moderator Vimbo Watson, speakers were Tamika Adams, Jennifer Burch, Jinada Rochelle, Tom Solitario and Gwendolen Wilder.

]]> In this virtual session from the November 7th Career Coaching Workshop, we brought together a diverse panel of speakers from different industries and in a range of leadership positions. Each shared the joys and challenges they face to help you gain insights that will help you navigate your own life and explore future opportunities. We covered a gamut of topics ranging from financial literacy, pivoting in the face of challenges, taking your military experience to a completely different federal organization, the impact of artificial intelligence and making sure you are ready when the "right door" opens. Led by moderator Vimbo Watson, speakers were Tamika Adams, Jennifer Burch, Jinada Rochelle, Tom Solitario and Gwendolen Wilder.

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18246394 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0500 3785 1 9 full false CCW Session 2: Cultivate Purpose to Create the Life You Love CCW Session 2: Cultivate Purpose to Create the Life You Love How do YOU find success? What brings YOU joy? How do YOU want to live your life? This interactive workshop from our November 7th Career Coaching Workshop dives into how you can cultivate purpose to create the life you love. This virtual session was led by Christina Mattison, life coach and leadership expert, who specializes in women in the military. The session starts with a quiet grounding that settled us in to a great discussion, enjoy!

]]> How do YOU find success? What brings YOU joy? How do YOU want to live your life? This interactive workshop from our November 7th Career Coaching Workshop dives into how you can cultivate purpose to create the life you love. This virtual session was led by Christina Mattison, life coach and leadership expert, who specializes in women in the military. The session starts with a quiet grounding that settled us in to a great discussion, enjoy!

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18246311 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0500 4397 1 8 full false CCW Session 1: Finding and Communicating Your Purpose CCW Session 1: Finding and Communicating Your Purpose This interactive workshop from our November 7, 2025 Career Coaching Workshop helps you align your interests and skills in order to identify opportunities that excite you so that you can narrow your focus while confidently and succinctly presenting yourself so that others can support you and your next move. Led my Tiffany Taylor of Hello Strengths this session will help you determine your unique personal strengths so that you can communicate how you can add value to your community, to organizations, and the nation in a way that is authentic and brings out the best in you. Enjoy!

]]> This interactive workshop from our November 7, 2025 Career Coaching Workshop helps you align your interests and skills in order to identify opportunities that excite you so that you can narrow your focus while confidently and succinctly presenting yourself so that others can support you and your next move. Led my Tiffany Taylor of Hello Strengths this session will help you determine your unique personal strengths so that you can communicate how you can add value to your community, to organizations, and the nation in a way that is authentic and brings out the best in you. Enjoy!

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18246277 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0500 3051 1 7 full false Meet NDAA Nerd Samantha Arrington Sliney Meet NDAA Nerd Samantha Arrington Sliney Join us for our first ever direct-to-pod episode with Samantha Arrington Sliney. Sam is an attorney, Air Force veteran, current Air National Guard officer, and military spouse dedicated to advancing policies that strengthen military families and promote gender equity. 

Advocacy is a common thread in her work, to include the North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism and Public Service, the Military Spouse JD Network, and the Department of the Air Force Women’s Initiative Team. 

We had a great conversation about the NDAA, the Federal shutdown, and how all of us, including uniformed service members, have a right to let our representatives know when there are issues to be fixed.

You can catch up with Sam on her website https://www.whitelaceandcombatboots.com/ and also LinkedIn Instagram and Facebook.

NOTE: The views expressed are our own and not those of any organization we are affiliated with.

]]> Join us for our first ever direct-to-pod episode with Samantha Arrington Sliney. Sam is an attorney, Air Force veteran, current Air National Guard officer, and military spouse dedicated to advancing policies that strengthen military families and promote gender equity. 

Advocacy is a common thread in her work, to include the North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism and Public Service, the Military Spouse JD Network, and the Department of the Air Force Women’s Initiative Team. 

We had a great conversation about the NDAA, the Federal shutdown, and how all of us, including uniformed service members, have a right to let our representatives know when there are issues to be fixed.

You can catch up with Sam on her website https://www.whitelaceandcombatboots.com/ and also LinkedIn Instagram and Facebook.

NOTE: The views expressed are our own and not those of any organization we are affiliated with.

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-18024289 Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:00:00 -0400 2572 1 6 full false OWLS 2025 Session 5: Leverage Talent to Innovate Change OWLS 2025 Session 5: Leverage Talent to Innovate Change CONNECT TO INNOVATE: LEVERAGE TALENT TO INNOVATE THROUGH CHANGE

Discover how tapping into your unique talents can spark innovation and ways to navigate transformative change. Hear from trailblazing leaders who have used their skills in unconventional ways to overcome obstacles and inspire progress regardless of the circumstances. This session focuses on leveraging strategic connections while fostering a mindset of creative problem-solving and continuous growth to amplify your influence and create lasting impact.

Speakers:

Brooke Jackson Kahn, PA-C: U.S. Army Combat Veteran and Founder, She’s the Veteran
LT Michaela “Mic” Long:Instructor Pilot, US Navy
Major Christina Mattison:USAF Reserves and Heart-Centered Leadership Coach and Retreat Leader
Tiffany Taylor:CliftonStrengths Coach and Owner, Hello Strengths
Major Teri Weber: Senior Pilot, USAF and Children’s Book Author



]]> CONNECT TO INNOVATE: LEVERAGE TALENT TO INNOVATE THROUGH CHANGE

Discover how tapping into your unique talents can spark innovation and ways to navigate transformative change. Hear from trailblazing leaders who have used their skills in unconventional ways to overcome obstacles and inspire progress regardless of the circumstances. This session focuses on leveraging strategic connections while fostering a mindset of creative problem-solving and continuous growth to amplify your influence and create lasting impact.

Speakers:

Brooke Jackson Kahn, PA-C: U.S. Army Combat Veteran and Founder, She’s the Veteran
LT Michaela “Mic” Long:Instructor Pilot, US Navy
Major Christina Mattison:USAF Reserves and Heart-Centered Leadership Coach and Retreat Leader
Tiffany Taylor:CliftonStrengths Coach and Owner, Hello Strengths
Major Teri Weber: Senior Pilot, USAF and Children’s Book Author



]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-17941367 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0400 3377 1 5 full false OWLS 2025 Session 4: Tapping Into Your Passions OWLS 2025 Session 4: Tapping Into Your Passions POWER OF CONNECTION: TAPPING INTO YOUR PASSIONS
When you are either in uniform or supporting a military member as a spouse, and life is super busy, you often put some of your personal passions into the “when we retire bucket.” But I have actually found that when my immediate responsibilities were the busiest, that’s when I most needed to step into a different world to regain balance and perspective. Our plan for today is to show you some of the ways to do that, through either personal growth or helping others or both.

Speakers:

Meredith McCall: Certified Travel Advisor, Military Spouse
Carol Northrup: Ultra-runner & outdoor adventurer, retired AF Colonel
Sarah Olson: N. Virginia Program Manager and Service Dog Training Instructor at Warrior Canine Connection, Military Spouse
Andrea Reichwald: Program Coordinator DC Chapter - Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP), Military Spouse
Tammy Trychon: Yoga Instructor, retired AF Lt Col
Vimbo Watson: Speaker and education expert, Military Spouse

]]> POWER OF CONNECTION: TAPPING INTO YOUR PASSIONS
When you are either in uniform or supporting a military member as a spouse, and life is super busy, you often put some of your personal passions into the “when we retire bucket.” But I have actually found that when my immediate responsibilities were the busiest, that’s when I most needed to step into a different world to regain balance and perspective. Our plan for today is to show you some of the ways to do that, through either personal growth or helping others or both.

Speakers:

Meredith McCall: Certified Travel Advisor, Military Spouse
Carol Northrup: Ultra-runner & outdoor adventurer, retired AF Colonel
Sarah Olson: N. Virginia Program Manager and Service Dog Training Instructor at Warrior Canine Connection, Military Spouse
Andrea Reichwald: Program Coordinator DC Chapter - Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP), Military Spouse
Tammy Trychon: Yoga Instructor, retired AF Lt Col
Vimbo Watson: Speaker and education expert, Military Spouse

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-17941357 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0400 2016 1 4 full false OWLS 2025 Session 3: Connect with HERstory OWLS 2025 Session 3: Connect with HERstory CONNECT WITH HerSTORY: THE POWER OF STORYTELLING TO INSPIRE AND EMPOWER

Stories shape history and sharing your own story can inspire others. This discussion will explore the power of storytelling to connect with others, motivate change, and create impact. Learn about valuable resources that will enable you to craft and share your narrative in a way that resonates with others, empowering both yourself and those who hear your story.

Panelists:

Travis Bickford: Head of Programs and Communications for Veterans History Project at Library of Congress
Marilla J. Cushman: Senior Advisor to the President, Military Women's Memorial
Capt Riley Tejcek:USMC Captain, Speaker, Team USA Bobsled Pilot, and Author
Dr. Crystal Tramack:Speaker, Coach, Program Manager and Storyteller
Elisabeth Auld: Panel Moderator and Chair, OWLS

Introduction: Susan Feland, President and Founder, AcademyWomen

]]> CONNECT WITH HerSTORY: THE POWER OF STORYTELLING TO INSPIRE AND EMPOWER

Stories shape history and sharing your own story can inspire others. This discussion will explore the power of storytelling to connect with others, motivate change, and create impact. Learn about valuable resources that will enable you to craft and share your narrative in a way that resonates with others, empowering both yourself and those who hear your story.

Panelists:

Travis Bickford: Head of Programs and Communications for Veterans History Project at Library of Congress
Marilla J. Cushman: Senior Advisor to the President, Military Women's Memorial
Capt Riley Tejcek:USMC Captain, Speaker, Team USA Bobsled Pilot, and Author
Dr. Crystal Tramack:Speaker, Coach, Program Manager and Storyteller
Elisabeth Auld: Panel Moderator and Chair, OWLS

Introduction: Susan Feland, President and Founder, AcademyWomen

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-17505240 Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0400 3525 1 3 full false OWLS 2025 Session 2: Connect with Self OWLS 2025 Session 2: Connect with Self CONNECT WITH SELF: LEVERAGING HUMOR AS A TOOL FOR HEALING AND GROWTH

In today’s world, leaders must adapt and build resilience in order to thrive. This session explores how to harness humor to enhance your mindset, boost emotional resilience, and foster personal growth. Today we’ll learn how to use humor as a powerful tool for healing, navigating obstacles, and maintaining balance in high-pressure situations.

Robin Phoenix Johnson served 26 years as an Army Logistician including 5 deployments to Afghanistan & Iraq.  She is now a stand-up comedian touring world-wide with Armed Forces Entertainment.  Robin is a Hoover Institution Fellow at Stanford University where she is a subject matter expert on the applied & therapeutic use of humor for improved performance.  She serves as faculty for both Thayer Leadership at West Point and the Institute for Defense & Business.  She guest lectures at the College of Charleston and Stanford Medical School.  

]]> CONNECT WITH SELF: LEVERAGING HUMOR AS A TOOL FOR HEALING AND GROWTH

In today’s world, leaders must adapt and build resilience in order to thrive. This session explores how to harness humor to enhance your mindset, boost emotional resilience, and foster personal growth. Today we’ll learn how to use humor as a powerful tool for healing, navigating obstacles, and maintaining balance in high-pressure situations.

Robin Phoenix Johnson served 26 years as an Army Logistician including 5 deployments to Afghanistan & Iraq.  She is now a stand-up comedian touring world-wide with Armed Forces Entertainment.  Robin is a Hoover Institution Fellow at Stanford University where she is a subject matter expert on the applied & therapeutic use of humor for improved performance.  She serves as faculty for both Thayer Leadership at West Point and the Institute for Defense & Business.  She guest lectures at the College of Charleston and Stanford Medical School.  

]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-17504790 Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0400 3331 1 2 full false OWLS 2025 Session 1: Connect to Master Conflict OWLS 2025 Session 1: Connect to Master Conflict CONNECT TO MASTER CONFLICT: DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP SKILLS TO OVERCOME WORKPLACE CHALLENGES

Conflict is a natural part of any team dynamic, but how you handle it as a leader makes all the difference. This discussion will provide tools to help you proactively address challenges and resolve conflicts before they escalate. Learn how to manage difficult relationships, maintain team cohesion, and create a positive work environment, all while ensuring mission success and fostering collaboration.

Panelists:

Megan Allison: an AF veteran who is passionate about developing leaders, strengthening organizations, and driving long-term success
Robin Fortner: USMC veteran who founded RC Fortner Enterprises, whose mission is to assist individuals or businesses to reach their highest goals through Coaching, Training, and Personal and Professional Development
Michelle Still Mehta, PhD:An experienced consultant, coach, and researcher specializing in the dynamics of organizations and working life.
Jessica Ruttenber:USAF veteran and Director, Level Up Aviation a nonprofit dedicated to helping youth and young adults find equity in aviation, combining her passion for flying with her commitment to breaking barriers in the field.
Eleanor Vuono:Attorney who began her career as an Army JAG, and is a founding member and past President of the Military Spouse JD Network, advocate for licensing accommodations for military spouses.
Elisabeth Auld:  Moderator andChair, OWLS


]]> CONNECT TO MASTER CONFLICT: DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP SKILLS TO OVERCOME WORKPLACE CHALLENGES

Conflict is a natural part of any team dynamic, but how you handle it as a leader makes all the difference. This discussion will provide tools to help you proactively address challenges and resolve conflicts before they escalate. Learn how to manage difficult relationships, maintain team cohesion, and create a positive work environment, all while ensuring mission success and fostering collaboration.

Panelists:

Megan Allison: an AF veteran who is passionate about developing leaders, strengthening organizations, and driving long-term success
Robin Fortner: USMC veteran who founded RC Fortner Enterprises, whose mission is to assist individuals or businesses to reach their highest goals through Coaching, Training, and Personal and Professional Development
Michelle Still Mehta, PhD:An experienced consultant, coach, and researcher specializing in the dynamics of organizations and working life.
Jessica Ruttenber:USAF veteran and Director, Level Up Aviation a nonprofit dedicated to helping youth and young adults find equity in aviation, combining her passion for flying with her commitment to breaking barriers in the field.
Eleanor Vuono:Attorney who began her career as an Army JAG, and is a founding member and past President of the Military Spouse JD Network, advocate for licensing accommodations for military spouses.
Elisabeth Auld:  Moderator andChair, OWLS


]]> OWLS Staff Buzzsprout-17281415 Wed, 04 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0400 3650 1 1 full false