Episodes

  • Family Guidons - Ep. 12 Stars, Stripes & Service

    Family Guidons - Ep. 12 Stars, Stripes & Service
    Jun 28 2026
    In this episode of Family Guidons, the hosts celebrate patriotism in honor of America’s 250th birthday by exploring what it truly means to serve and support our nation beyond holidays and celebrations. Joined by Lindsay Robertson, South Carolina’s Youth of the Year, the conversation highlights the importance of volunteering, community involvement, and giving back to others. Through Linday’s experiences serving military families and participating in youth leadership programs, listeners are reminded that patriotism is more than waving a flag-it’s about honoring the sacrifices of those who came before us, strengthening our communities, and finding meaningful ways to serve others every day. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:45 - Discussing the Meaning of Patriotism 00:02:07 - Evolution of Patriotism Over Time 00:04:12 - Daily Life and Sacrifices of Military Families 00:06:02 - Email from Karla E. on Military Service 00:09:25 - Unseen Contributions of Military Spouses 00:12:00 - Importance of Volunteering in Military Communities 00:17:24 - Addressing Misconceptions About Younger Generations 00:18:06 - Memorial Day Experience in Cranford, New Jersey 00:20:59 - Teaching Patriotism to the Next Generation 00:22:43 - Introduction of Guest Lindsay Robertson 00:24:52 - Lindsay's Inspiration for Volunteering 00:29:18 - Influence of Military Family Life 00:31:06 - Challenges Faced While Serving Others 00:34:23 - Advice for Teens Interested in Volunteering 00:36:52 - Closing Remarks and Encouragement to Get Involved 00:38:00 - Highlighting Santiago Quiroz's Contributions 00:39:27 - Encouragement for Families to Volunteer 00:40:07 - Conclusion Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com Service Member & Family Care: https://www.scguard.ng.mil/Programs-Benefits/ Child & Youth Program: https://www.scguard.ng.mil/Programs-Benefits/Military-and-Family-Programs/Child-and-Youth-Programs/ SC National Guard Soldier & Family Readiness Program: https://www.scguard.ng.mil/Programs-Benefits/Military-and-Family-Programs/Family-Readiness-Specialists-SFRS-AFR-/ Homefront Archives Blog: https://www.militaryspousehistory.com/ South Carolina National Guard / https://www.scguard.ng.mil/ Youtube / scnationalguard Facebook / scguard Instagram / official_scguard Twitter / scnationalguard Flickr / https://www.flickr.com/photos/scguard/ DVIDS / https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SCNG
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    41 mins
  • Family Guidons - Ep 11 Her Service, Her story

    Family Guidons - Ep 11 Her Service, Her story
    Jun 14 2026
    In this episode of Family Guidons, we sit down with Brigadier General Linda Riedel to discuss her experiences serving as a woman in the military and the challenges and triumphs that shaped her career. Brig. Gen. Riedel shares insights from her journey through leadership, breaking barriers and balancing the demands of military service while paving the way for future generations of women in uniform. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on the importance of resilience, mentorship and the evolving role of women within the armed forces. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about leadership, perseverance and the lasting impact women continue to make across the military community. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:02:07 - Episode Topic: Women in Military Service 00:03:23 - Guest Introduction: Brigadier General Linda Riedel 00:05:06 - Gen. Riedel’s Military Background and Inspiration 00:07:46 - Defining Moments in Leadership 00:09:40 - Understanding Leadership in the Military 00:11:16 - Handling Deployments as a Female Service Member 00:17:03 - Supporting and Mentoring Female Service Members 00:19:57 - Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome 00:23:03 - Advice for Continuing or Retiring from Military Service 00:26:38 - Memorable Stories and Determination 00:30:11 - Advice for Young Women Considering Military Service 00:32:38 - Letters from Female Service Members 00:36:03 - Closing Remarks and Call for Stories Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com History of women veterans: https://www.uso.org/stories/3005-over-200-years-of-service-the-history-of-women-in-the-us-military https://veteranlife.com/lifestyle/women-veterans-day Center for women veterans https://www.va.gov/womenvet/resources/index.asp Womens veteran program manager https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/WOMENSHEALTH/wvpm-locator.asp Women’s veteran alliance https://www.womenveteransalliance.com/ Woven women’s veterans network https://www.wovenwomenvets.org/about/ VA, suicide hotline https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ Foundation for women warriors https://foundationforwomenwarriors.org/programs/ Operation we are here https://www.operationwearehere.com/femaleveterans.html White ribbon VA https://www.va.gov/health/harassment-free/ Resources for post military life for women veterans https://www.womenveteransalliance.com/ https://womenveteransinteractive.org/ South Carolina National Guard / https://www.scguard.ng.mil/ Youtube / scnationalguard Facebook / scguard Instagram / official_scguard Twitter / scnationalguard Flickr / https://www.flickr.com/photos/scguard/ DVIDS / https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SCNG
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    37 mins
  • Family Guidons - Ep. 10 Storm-Proof Spouses

    Family Guidons - Ep. 10 Storm-Proof Spouses
    Jun 2 2026
    Storm-Proof Spouses In this episode of Family Guidons, we discuss essential preparations for storm season, particularly from the perspective of military spouses. As storms can occur regardless of duty schedules, the conversation focuses on the unique challenges faced when partners are deployed or away during these critical times. We share our personal experiences, insights, and practical tips to help military families stay mentally and physically prepared for storms, ensuring they can navigate these challenges with resilience and support. Tune in for valuable advice and a sense of community as we tackle the realities of military life during storm season. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:51 - Storm Prep During Deployment 00:02:10 - The Importance of Prepping Ahead 00:02:26 - Emotional Challenges of Storm Prep 00:02:48 - National Guard Deployments and Storms 00:03:02 - Personal Storm Stories 00:03:43 - Listener Story: Hurricane Michael at Tyndall 00:06:01 - Preparing Ahead and Making Contacts 00:06:23 - Essential Items for a Storm Kit 00:09:08 - Importance of Contact Lists 00:10:36 - Creative Solutions for Power Outages 00:12:01 - Keeping Kids and Pets Entertained 00:15:17 - Organizing and Updating Important Documents 00:17:42 - Deployment Binders and Emergency Folders 00:18:47 - Using Your Community for Help 00:22:17 - Personal Story: Riding Out Hurricane Helene 00:26:14 - Mindset and Can-Do Attitude 00:27:03 - Over-Preparing vs. Under-Preparing 00:28:10 - Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts 00:29:02 - Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com https://hurricane.sc/prepare Scemd.org South Carolina emergency management app https://dph.sc.gov/public/stormhurricane-preparedness/make-your-emergency-kit https://dph.sc.gov/public/stormhurricane-preparedness/hurricanes-floods https://www.chaseday.com/preparing-for-weather-extreme-weather-in-south- South Carolina National Guard / https://www.scguard.ng.mil/ Youtube / scnationalguard Facebook / scguard Instagram / official_scguard Twitter / scnationalguard Flickr / https://www.flickr.com/photos/scguard/ DVIDS / https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SCNG
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    30 mins
  • Family Guidons - Ep. 9 Behind the Uniform: A Tribute to Military Spouses

    Family Guidons - Ep. 9 Behind the Uniform: A Tribute to Military Spouses
    May 17 2026
    Behind the Uniform: A Tribute to Military Spouses In this episode of Family Guidons, the hosts come together to honor the incredible contributions and sacrifices of military spouses. With May being a month filled with significant military observances, including Loyalty Day, Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, the hosts discuss the unique challenges and strengths of military families. They emphasize the importance of Military Spouse Appreciation Day, reflecting on the vital role spouses play in supporting their service members and holding down the home front. Tune in for heartfelt conversations and a celebration of the resilience within the military community. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:31 - May: A Month of Military Recognition 00:05:01 - Emotional Struggles of Solo Parenting 00:05:52 - Lighter Side of Military Life 00:09:11 - Mastering Logistics and Planning 00:09:42 - Reinventing Yourself 00:11:05 - Military Spouses' Career Paths 00:11:37 - Service Members' Letters of Appreciation 00:12:09 - Curtis W.'s Letter 00:13:05 - Jerquille M.'s Letter 00:14:02 - Peter B.'s Letter 00:14:50 - Kacy G.'s Letter 00:15:07 - Bill M.'s Letter 00:17:00 - John P.'s Letter 00:17:22 - Joshua S.'s Letter 00:17:45 - Curtis S.'s Letter 00:19:05 - Josh L.'s Letter 00:20:28 - Jay S's Letter 00:21:12 - Mike D.'s Letter 00:21:56 - Chris H.'s Letter 00:23:14 - Resentment and Communication 00:24:10 - Honest Conversations and Support Systems 00:29:22 - Tangible Benefits for Military Families 00:30:42 - Nonprofit Support for Military Spouses 00:31:46 - Community and Family Appreciation 00:36:05 - Community and Family Support 00:37:09 - Supporting Deployed Service Members 00:37:47 - Closing Remarks and Gratitude 00:38:42 - Podcast Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com Military spouse appreciation month discounts https://www.military.com/military-appreciation-month/military-appreciation-month-discounts.html Commissary, discounts, and contests https://www.military.com/military-appreciation-month/military-appreciation-month-commissary-discounts.html Military spouse why we appreciate you https://www.military.com/spouse/military-life/national-military-spouse-appreciation-day.html Military spouse, appreciation day, quotes https://www.military.com/spouse/military-life/military-spouse-appreciation-day-quotes.html South Carolina National Guard / https://www.scguard.ng.mil/ Youtube / scnationalguard Facebook / scguard Instagram / official_scguard Twitter / scnationalguard Flickr / https://www.flickr.com/photos/scguard/ DVIDS / https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SCNG
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    40 mins
  • Family Guidons - Ep. 8 The Guard: More Than You Think

    Family Guidons - Ep. 8 The Guard: More Than You Think
    May 1 2026
    In this episode of Family Guidons, the hosts dive into the intricacies of life as a National Guard family. With a combined experience of military life spanning decades, they share personal stories and insights that shed light on the unique challenges and rewards faced by National Guard members and their families. The discussion aims to foster understanding and connection, emphasizing the importance of support for those serving in the National Guard and their loved pens. Tune in for an honest conversation that highlights the realities of military life, the strength required to navigate it, and the sense of community that comes from shared experiences. 00:00 - Intro 01:33 - Understanding the National Guard 02:21 - The Scope of the National Guard's Mission 03:31 - Common Misconceptions About the Guard 04:39 - Active Duty vs. National Guard 05:36 - The Disruptive Nature of Guard Service 05:58 - The Combat Role of the National Guard 07:06 - Community Integration of the Guard 08:18 - Historical Roots of the National Guard 09:14 - Air Guard's Homeland Defense Mission 10:21 - State Missions and Natural Disasters 12:03 - Personal Stories of Guard Service During Disasters 15:05 - Guard's Role in State Emergencies Beyond Natural Disasters 20:14 - Federal Mission of the National Guard 22:54 - Length and Impact of Deployments 24:41 - Challenges of Guard Deployments on Families 27:00 - Historical Contributions of the South Carolina Guard 30:19 - Current Deployments and Ongoing Conflicts 31:00 - Community and Family Support for Guard Members 32:04 - Legacy of Service in Guard Families 37:22 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com Defining Daily Victories During a Military Deployment: Navigating the Holidays - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YH6GukafBcg Handling Travel During Deployment of Your Service Member - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62jataTay1g
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    39 mins
  • Family Guidons - Ep. 7 Holding It Together at Home: Coping with Deployment Stress & Anxiety Part 2

    Family Guidons - Ep. 7 Holding It Together at Home: Coping with Deployment Stress & Anxiety Part 2
    Apr 17 2026
    In this episode of Family Guidons, we continue our conversation on coping with the stress and anxiety of a loved one's deployment. Joined by guest Lisa Mustard, we delve into the unique challenges military families face, particularly focusing on how to support children during these tough times. We discuss the different needs and emotional responses of kids, emphasizing that parents don’t need to be perfect in managing their own emotions or their children's. Tune in for practical advice and heartfelt insights on fostering security and stability at home while navigating the complexities of deployment. Join us for part two of our series on handling deployment stress and strengthening family bonds. 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - Supporting Kids Through Deployment 02:45 - Communicating with Kids of Different Ages 05:05 - Handling School and Social Media Exposure 07:50 - Creative Activities for Kids 13:55 - Support Resources for Kids 14:25 - Behavioral Health Specialists and Military OneSource 19:15 - School Support and Purple Star Districts 20:54 - Coaches and Extracurricular Activities 22:17 - Parent Community Support 23:44 - Supporting Parents of Deployed Service Members 25:28 - Managing Anxiety and Expectations 34:28 - Recognizing When to Seek Professional Support 37:02 - Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior 42:49 - Guided Meditation and Relaxation Tools 43:57 - Additional Resources for Kids and Teens 44:14 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement 45:43 - Teaser for Next Episode Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com Lisa Mustard: 803-409-9965, Lisa.Mustard@scmd.sc.gov South Carolina Army National Guard Behavioral Health Care Line - 866-345-8400 Military OneSource - www.militaryonesource.mil 24-HOUR NATIONAL CRISIS LIFELINE - Available for civilians and service members. 1-800-273-8255; Service Members press option #1. You may also TEXT 838255 to the Veterans Crisis Line or click https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/ to open up a chat conversation. Operation Purple: https://www.militaryfamily.org/state-of-the-military-family-programs/operation-purple/ Military spouse advocacy network: https://www.militaryspouseadvocacynetwork.org/ Bloom Military Teen program: https://www.bloommilitaryteens.org/ Blue Star Mothers of America: https://www.bluestarmothers.org/ Defining Daily Victories During a Military Deployment: Navigating the Holidays - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YH6GukafBcg Handling Travel During Deployment of Your Service Member - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62jataTay1g
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    46 mins
  • Family Guidons - Ep. 6 Holding It Together at Home: Coping with Deployment Stress & Anxiety Part 1

    Family Guidons - Ep. 6 Holding It Together at Home: Coping with Deployment Stress & Anxiety Part 1
    Apr 3 2026
    In this episode of Family Guidons, the hosts sit down with Lisa Mustard, a licensed marriage and family therapist and the psychological health program manager for the South Carolina Military Department, to talk about the challenges and emotional impact of deployment on military families. From managing stress and anxiety to navigating parenting and maintaining emotional well-being, this episode is filled with practical coping tools, expert insight and real-life experiences. If you or your family are facing the realities of deployment, this conversation offers support, understanding and resources to help you through it. This is part one of “Holding It Together at Home” so make sure you come back for part two where they continue the conversation. 00:00 - Intro 02:30 - Episode Topic: Coping with Deployment Stress and Anxiety 03:05 - Personal Experiences with Deployment 03:43 - Introducing Expert Guest: Lisa Mustard 04:52 - Understanding Deployment Stress 07:44 - Children's Reactions to Deployment 08:24 - Differences in Coping: Kids vs. Spouses vs. Parents 09:07 - Signs of Stress in Family Members 10:11 - Holding it Together: The Importance of Support Systems 11:14 - Different Coping Mechanisms for Spouses 17:46 - Long-Term Support for Military Families 22:09 - Signs of Serious Stress in Adults 23:01 - Signs of Serious Stress in Children 25:21 - Communicating with Children About Deployment 27:44 - Coping and Grounding Strategies 28:46 - Importance of Community Support 31:09 - Calming Techniques: Deep Breathing and Grounding 33:44 - Self-Care During Deployment 35:09 - Maintaining Routines and Schedules 37:06 - Adapting to the New Normal 39:06 - Importance of Self-Care for Parents 41:06 - Maintaining Connection with Deployed Partner 44:13 - Balancing Communication and Emotional Support 45:37 - Preview of Next Episode: Supporting Kids and Parents Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com Lisa Mustard: 803-409-9965, Lisa.Mustard@scmd.sc.gov South Carolina Army National Guard Behavioral Health Care Line - 866-345-8400 Military OneSource - www.militaryonesource.mil 24-HOUR NATIONAL CRISIS LIFELINE - Available for civilians and service members. 1-800-273-8255; Service Members press option #1. You may also TEXT 838255 to the Veterans Crisis Line or click https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/ to open up a chat conversation. Operation Purple: https://www.militaryfamily.org/state-of-the-military-family-programs/operation-purple/ Military spouse advocacy network: https://www.militaryspouseadvocacynetwork.org/ Bloom Military Teen program: https://www.bloommilitaryteens.org/ Blue Star Mothers of America: https://www.bluestarmothers.org/ Defining Daily Victories During a Military Deployment: Navigating the Holidays - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YH6GukafBcg Handling Travel During Deployment of Your Service Member - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62jataTay1g South Carolina National Guard / https://www.scguard.ng.mil/ Youtube / scnationalguard Facebook / scguard Instagram / official_scguard Twitter / scnationalguard Flickr / https://www.flickr.com/photos/scguard/ DVIDS / https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SCNG
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    47 mins
  • Family Guidons - Ep. 5 It's Almost Summer...What Are These Kids Doing?

    Family Guidons - Ep. 5 It's Almost Summer...What Are These Kids Doing?
    Mar 26 2026
    In this episode of Family Guidons, the hosts sit down with Matalyn Bulwinkle from the South Carolina National Guard Child and Youth Program to talk about all things summer. From overnight camps and teen leadership retreats to scholarships, grants, and free tutoring resources, this episode is packed with practical tools to help military families plan ahead and make summer both meaningful and manageable. If you’re wondering how to fill those long summer weeks while balancing Guard life, this episode is for you. 00:00 Intro 02:00 Introducing Madeline Bullwinkle 03:30 Why summer planning is different for Guard families 05:30 Overview of SCNG Child & Youth Program 14:00 Month of the Military Child (April events) 16:00 Soldier for a Day event at McCrady 17:30 Grants & financial assistance for summer activities 19:30 Scholarships for military children 21:00 Local resources: YMCA, Boys & Girls Club 22:30 Virtual resources (Tutor.com, United Through Reading) 24:00 Advice for shy kids considering camp 25:30 Listener letter: Local day trips & creative summer ideas 26:30 Where to find SCNG Child & Youth resources & closing Links: Email: familyguidons@gmail.com Child & Youth Programs: Facebook/Instagram - South Carolina and Youth Program Hashtag: #SCGCYP Website: www.arngcys.com Grants & Financial Assistance: Our Military Kids - https://www.ourmilitarykids.org United Heroes League - https://unitedheroesleague.org Operation Homefront - https://operationhomefront.org Fisher House Scholarships https://www.fisherhouse.org/programs/scholarship-programs/ Youth & Community Programs: Military Child Education Coalition - https://www.militarychild.org Boys & Girls Club of America - https://www.bgca.org Local YMCA Virtual & Academic Support: Tutor.com - https://www.tutor.com/military United Through Reading - https://unitedthroughreading.org Defining Daily Victories During a Military Deployment: Navigating the Holidays - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YH6GukafBcg Handling Travel During Deployment of Your Service Member - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62jataTay1g South Carolina National Guard / https://www.scguard.ng.mil/ Youtube / scnationalguard Facebook / scguard Instagram / official_scguard Twitter / scnationalguard Flickr / https://www.flickr.com/photos/scguard/ DVIDS / https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SCNG
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    28 mins