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    Family Guidons

    Family Guidons

    Audio | South Carolina National Guard
    pandora

    About

    Military spouses have a new platform dedicated to their voices and experiences with the military spouse-led podcast ‘Family Guidons’, created by military spouses for military spouses and powered by the South Carolina National Guard.



    Episodes


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 9

      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... read more

      05/06/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 10

      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... read more

      05/06/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 6

      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... read more

      03/17/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 7

      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... read more

      03/17/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 8

      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... read more

      03/17/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 5

      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... read more

      03/03/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 3

      In this episode of Family Guidons, hosts Michelle Matheny, Charlotte Stilwell and Kathy Bridgers tackle one of the biggest challenges military families face today: staying connected online while also staying safe. In a world of fast news, viral posts, and constant access, they share practical tips for OPSEC, protecting your family’s privacy, setting healthy boundaries, and keeping your peace online—especially during deployments.

      Links:
      Email: familyguidons@gmail.com
      ready.gov... read more

      02/10/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 4

      In this episode of Family Guidons, Michelle, Kathy, and Charlotte talk about one of the hardest parts of military life: the long, stretching days of deployment. Through heartfelt listener emails and personal stories, they share practical and emotional ways to get through the endless weeks and months — from building your village and creating new traditions to breaking time into smaller milestones and finding purpose in the waiting. If you’ve ever felt like time slows to a crawl during... read more

      02/10/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 1

      Welcome to Family Guidons, the podcast created by military spouses for military families. In this inaugural episode, we invite you to get to know your hosts and discover what this podcast is all about.
      As military spouses, we understand the unique challenges of holding down the home front during deployments, state activations, and everything in between. Here, we aim to have honest conversations about the realities of military life—the highs, the hard moments, and the strength it takes to... read more

      01/20/2026


    • Family Guidons - Ep. 2

      In this episode of Family Guidons, hosts Michelle Matheny, Charlotte Stillwell, and Kathy Bridgers dive into the theme of navigating the new year as a military spouse. With personal experiences and insights, they offer encouragement and support for those starting the year solo due to deployments or state activations. The conversation highlights the unique challenges and strengths of military life, fostering a sense of community among listeners. Additionally, the hosts share stories submitted... read more

      01/20/2026