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In this special episode of Hidden Chapters, I step on stage for the very first time at the Military Influencer Conference and share my story as a retired military spouse, navigating grief, identity, loss, and the journey of figuring out who I am along the way. I talk about how Hidden Chapters came to be, the healing power of storytelling, and why sharing our hidden stories matters.

During the talk, I invited the audience to share one word that describes their own hidden chapter, which later became a word cloud you can check out on my social media pages. This live, real, and honest talk reached both military and civilian listeners, and it reminded me why telling our stories and connecting with others is so important.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your story matters, this episode is a little nudge that it absolutely does and sometimes, sharing it on a stage (or even a podcast) can be more powerful than we imagine.

Takeaways from my talk:

• Hidden chapters are the parts of our lives that shape us the most.
• The podcast was born from a desire to share personal stories.
• Navigating life changes can lead to feelings of loss and identity.
• Sharing stories can be a therapeutic process for both the storyteller and the audience.
• Engaging with the audience helps to create a sense of community.
• The impact of personal stories can resonate with many, fostering connection.
• The journey of podcasting began as a way to find one's voice.
• Hidden chapters often reveal struggles that are not visible on the surface.
• Stories of resilience and strength can inspire others to share their own.

Support the show

Thank you for listening to Hidden Chapters!

If today's episode moved you, please consider
✅ Sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

❤️I would love to hear from you!

📫 Join me on Substack for deeper connection or to continue the conversation on each episode and receive the weekly newsletter "The Next Chapter Notes"

💬 Leave me a voice message on: https://www.speakpipe.com/HiddenChapters

☕️ Want to support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/hiddenchapters

Let's stay connected: 🔗

📷 Instagram: @hiddenchapterspodcast

📘 Facebook: Hidden Chapters

Got a story to share or want to be a guest?

💌 Email me: chapters@hiddenchapterspodcast.com
🎙️ Be a guest? Apply here

Background Music: "In Time" by Folk_acoustic from Pixabay

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What do you do when the life you thought you knew is turned upside down?

In this deeply personal conversation, Jennifer Blankenship shares her journey through betrayal, discovering her husband’s long-term affair and hidden family, and navigating the emotional aftermath as a retired, divorced military spouse. She opens up about the complexities of narcissistic abuse, the trauma bonds that kept her tied to a painful situation, and the challenge of reclaiming her identity while protecting her family.

Faith became her anchor during this season of life, guiding her healing, helping her process grief, and giving her strength to step into her next chapter. Jennifer also talks about the courage it took to self-publish her memoir, the transformative power of sharing her story, and her desire to support others facing similar struggles.

If you’ve ever faced betrayal, loss, or the challenge of rediscovering yourself, Jennifer’s story will meet you where you are and show how her own journey of pain has become a ministry of hope, resilience, and faith for others.

Takeaways from our conversation:

• Faith played a crucial role in Jennifer's healing journey.
• Jennifer's journey emphasizes the power of resilience and hope. Jennifer discovered a DFAS form that revealed her entitlement to her ex-husband's military retirement.
• The Ex-Military Spouse Protection Act was crucial in securing her financial rights post-divorce.
• Jennifer's faith remained strong throughout her struggles, providing her with comfort and guidance.
• Jennifer aims to help others who have experienced betrayal by sharing her story.
• She believes that sharing her story can lead others to find hope and healing.

📖 You can purchase Jennifer's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/7KWQQmB

🔗 Reflecting His Heart Ministries: https://reflectinghisheartministries.com/
📬 You can send Jennifer a message at: reflectinghisheartministries@gmail.com

Support the show

Thank you for listening to Hidden Chapters!

If today's episode moved you, please consider
✅ Sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

❤️I would love to hear from you!

📫 Join me on Substack for deeper connection or to continue the conversation on each episode and receive the weekly newsletter "The Next Chapter Notes"

💬 Leave me a voice message on: https://www.speakpipe.com/HiddenChapters

☕️ Want to support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/hiddenchapters

Let's stay connected: 🔗

📷 Instagram: @hiddenchapterspodcast

📘 Facebook: Hidden Chapters

Got a story to share or want to be a guest?

💌 Email me: chapters@hiddenchapterspodcast.com
🎙️ Be a guest? Apply here

Background Music: "In Time" by Folk_acoustic from Pixabay

Leave me a note-I'd love to hear from you!

From arriving in the U.S. without knowing a word of English to rising through the ranks to become a Sergeant Major, Jose Raymundo’s story is one of struggles, triumphs and deep resilience.

In this conversation, Jose opens up about the hidden chapters behind his military career, the emotional weight of service, the quiet battles few ever saw, and the courage it took to share his story in his new memoir.

We talk about what it really means to transition from military to civilian life, the lessons that come from counseling and self-reflection, and the healing power of reconnecting with family. Jose reminds us that behind every uniform is a human story and that sharing those stories can bring light, hope, and healing to others walking the same road.

So many hidden chapters in his story, I can't wait to share.

Takeaways from our conversation:

• Jose's journey highlights the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life.
• Writing a book can be a therapeutic process, but it also brings up painful memories.
• Transparency in storytelling fosters connection and relatability with the audience.
• Language barriers can complicate the military experience for non-native speakers.
• The importance of mentorship and support in achieving personal goals.
• Family connections play a crucial role in personal development and healing.
• Reactions from family members can lead to unexpected insights and healing.
• Future aspirations include writing more about the hidden struggles of veterans.

📖 You can purchase Jose's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/j7El8lb

You can also reach out to Jose on Facebook:
FB author page: Jose F Raymundo- Author-

Email José:

📧 raymundoandassociatesllc@gmail.com

📧 jfraymundo@hotmail.com

Support the show

Thank you for listening to Hidden Chapters!

If today's episode moved you, please consider
✅ Sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

❤️I would love to hear from you!

📫 Join me on Substack for deeper connection or to continue the conversation on each episode and receive the weekly newsletter "The Next Chapter Notes"

💬 Leave me a voice message on: https://www.speakpipe.com/HiddenChapters

☕️ Want to support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/hiddenchapters

Let's stay connected: 🔗

📷 Instagram: @hiddenchapterspodcast

📘 Facebook: Hidden Chapters

Got a story to share or want to be a guest?

💌 Email me: chapters@hiddenchapterspodcast.com
🎙️ Be a guest? Apply here

Background Music: "In Time" by Folk_acoustic from Pixabay