Our Navy Life

About Our Navy Life

Your journey as a Navy family can be exciting and fulfilling. It can also be confusing and stressful. For all your challenges and triumphs — from how to thrive during deployments to navigating Tricare — Naval Services FamilyLine has been your go-to resource since 1965. If you're living the Navy Life, this podcast is for you. Join us as we discuss ways to navigate this Navy life together and define what it means to be a modern Navy family.

Publisher

Naval Services FamilyLine

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

26 Sept 2022

Latest episode

10 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

57 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   10 Sept 2026

   S9 E2: Ombudsman Appreciation: The People Connecting Navy Families to Their Commands

   When navigating Navy life, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. A new duty station, an upcoming deployment, an unexpected challenge, or simply a question about available resources can sometimes leave Navy families wondering where to start. That's where one of the Navy's most important family support resources comes in: the command ombudsman. In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost is joined by Mrs. Angie Perryman, spouse of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy and an Ombudsman-at-Large, for a conversation about the people who help connect Navy families to their commands, resources, and communities. They also break down what an ombudsman actually does, the kinds of situations they can help families navigate, and why connecting with your command ombudsman before a problem arises can be an important part of staying informed and connected. In recognition of Ombudsman Appreciation Day, this episode is also a thank-you to the volunteers across the Navy who answer calls, share information, connect families with resources, welcome newcomers, and provide a familiar point of contact when Navy life feels unfamiliar. Whether you're a brand-new Navy spouse, a seasoned military family member, or someone considering becoming an ombudsman yourself, this episode offers a closer look at the people and connections helping strengthen Navy families and their commands. Key Topics & Highlights Meet Angie Perryman: A Navy Spouse's Journey Before discussing her role as an Ombudsman-at-Large, Angie shares her own experience navigating Navy life. Finding Community in Navy Life Teal and Angie discuss the importance of finding your people, the individuals who helped Angie navigate Navy life, and how those experiences can inspire military spouses to support and encourage the families around them. What Exactly Does a Navy Ombudsman Do? Military life can mean starting over again and again, making new connections at every duty station, and learning how to build community wherever you land. Teal and Angie discuss the importance of finding your people, the individuals who helped Angie navigate Navy life, and how those experiences can inspire military spouses to support and encourage the families around them. Why You Don't Have to Wait Until Something Goes Wrong An ombudsman isn't only there for families during a crisis. Connecting with your ombudsman, knowing who they are, and staying informed about your command community can help families build connections and know where to turn before they ever need assistance. Could You Be an Ombudsman? For listeners interested in becoming more involved in their command community, Angie shares the qualities that can make someone a strong ombudsman. You don't have to have all the answers or decades of Navy experience to make a difference. A willingness to learn, listen, connect with others, and help families find the right resources can go a long way. Ombudsman Appreciation Day Much of an ombudsman's work happens quietly and behind the scenes. It's the phone call. The email. The welcome to a new family. The information shared before a deployment. The resource referral. And sometimes, it's simply being the person who says, "Here's where you can start." In recognition of Ombudsman Appreciation Day, Angie shares what the day means to her and offers a message to the volunteers across the Navy who dedicate their time and energy to supporting fellow Navy families. A Message for Every Navy Family Angie shares practical encouragement for families looking to connect more with their command community and explains why knowing who your ombudsman is can be an important part of family readiness. Resources & Links: Naval Services FamilyLine Website (https://nsfamilyline.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) NS FamilyLine Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/nsfamilyline/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) NS FamilyLine Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nsfamilyline/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) To the ombudsmen serving commands around the world: thank you.

2. 

   25 Aug 2026

   S9 E1: The Navy Beyond the Base: Why America's Maritime Future Starts With Families

   Notes:In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost takes a step back to explore the bigger picture of America's relationship with the sea and why our maritime strength matters to every American. Joining her is Mike Stevens, the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy and Chief Executive Officer of the Navy League of the United States. Mike shares his journey through 33 years of Navy service, including his time as MCPON, and explains what his experience taught him about Sailors, families, and readiness. He also discusses his transition from senior enlisted leadership to the Navy League. Whether you're part of the Navy community or simply someone who wants to better understand why America's sea services matter, this episode offers a look beyond the base and into the larger mission that connects our Navy, our families, our communities, and our nation. Key Topics & Highlights: From MCPON to Navy League CEO Mike Stevens reflects on his 33-year Navy career, including his time as the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. He shares what his years of deckplate leadership taught him about Sailors, leadership, and the families who support the force. Mike also discusses his transition from the Navy to the Navy League of the United States and what drew him to an organization dedicated to supporting America's sea services. What Does It Mean to Be a Maritime Nation?America's relationship with the ocean touches nearly every part of our lives—from global commerce and supply chains to jobs, transportation, national security, and international relationships. Teal and Mike unpack what it actually means to call the United States a maritime nation and why Americans who may never set foot on a ship should still care about what happens at sea. The Navy and America's Security A strong Navy gives the United States the ability to protect national interests, respond to crises, deter conflict, and operate around the world. Mike explains why maritime strength matters to America's security and why maintaining a capable and ready sea service is about much more than military power alone. Why Families Are Part of ReadinessReadiness isn't only about ships, aircraft, equipment, and training. It's also about people. Teal and Mike discuss the connection between Sailor well-being, family stability, retention, and mission readiness—and what happens when military families don't have the support they need. They also explore the positive impact that can come when families feel supported, connected, and valued by their service and their communities. Looking Toward America's Maritime FutureTechnology is rapidly changing the way the Navy operates. From artificial intelligence and unmanned systems to cyber capabilities and evolving forms of warfare, the Navy of tomorrow may look very different from the Navy of today. Mike shares his perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead—and what those changes could mean for Sailors and their families. The Navy League's RoleThe Navy League of the United States is a civilian organization focused on supporting, educating, and advocating for America's sea services. Its work includes support for service members and families, public education about the importance of sea power, legislative advocacy, youth programs, and community engagement. Mike explains how the Navy League helps bridge the gap between the sea services and the American public—and why that connection matters for the future of America's maritime strength. Resources & Links Navy League of the United States (https://www.navyleague.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Learn more about the Navy League's mission, programs, membership, and support for America's sea services. Navy League Legislative Affairs (https://www.navyleague.org/legislative-affairs/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Navy League Youth Programs (https://www.navyleague.org/programs/youth-programs/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — Learn about Sea Cadets, JROTC, Young Marines, and other youth programs supported by Navy League councils. Navy League Membership (https://www.navyleague.org/join/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Naval Services FamilyLine Website (https://nsfamilyline.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) NS FamilyLine Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/nsfamilyline/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) NS FamilyLine Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nsfamilyline/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

3. 

   28 Jul 2026

   S8 E5: Explore, Learn & Save This Summer: Inside the Blue Star Museums Program with Vicky Perkins

   Show Notes Summer is the perfect time for military families to explore new places, create lasting memories, and reconnect—but those adventures can quickly become expensive. In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost is joined by fellow Navy spouse Vicky Perkins, Vice President of Programs at Blue Star Families, for a conversation about one of the military community's most beloved summer benefits: Blue Star Museums. Together, they discuss how the program provides eligible military families with free admission to more than 2,000 museums across the country each summer, making it easier to experience everything from children's museums and aquariums to science centers, art museums, and historic sites. Vicky also shares her own military spouse journey, discusses the broader mission of Blue Star Families, and explains why museums play such an important role in helping military families connect with the communities they call home. Whether you're staying close to home this summer, traveling on leave, or settling into a new duty station, this episode will inspire you to discover affordable adventures wherever military life takes you. Key Topics & Highlights Inside Blue Star Families Learn more about the mission of Blue Star Families and the many programs the organization offers to support service members, spouses, caregivers, and children. Vicky also shares how feedback from military families helps shape programs that address real community needs. What is Blue Star Museums? Discover how the Blue Star Museums program works, who is eligible, and why more than 2,000 museums nationwide participate each summer. From world-class art museums to local history museums and children's discovery centers, there's something for every family to enjoy. Making the Most of Summer Whether you're PCSing, vacationing, or spending the summer at your current duty station, Vicky explains why Blue Star Museums is more than just a financial benefit—it's an opportunity to explore new communities, encourage lifelong learning, and make meaningful family memories. Why Museums Matter Military families are constantly adapting to new places. Teal and Vicky discuss how museums can help children feel connected to their communities, inspire curiosity, and provide enriching experiences that the whole family can enjoy together. Resources & Links Blue Star Families (https://bluestarfam.org/?campaignid=16372443259&adgroupid=133457231453&keyword=blue%20star%20families&device=c&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16372443259&gbraid=0AAAAADwkEi43-Z0VO2PG_FB4NPxoK9n62&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjvfSBhDpARIsAEiOpSsnWXzIz_z3kC6gz50_YWRo91S7NfGDfgWUS7ir1nFZnZvOj8yAslEaAl83EALw_wcB) Blue Star Museums (https://bluestarfam.org/family-life/blue-star-museums/) Find a Blue Star Museum (https://www.arts.gov/blue-star-museums-map) Blue Star Families Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BlueStarFamilies) Blue Star Families Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/bluestarfamilies/?hl=en) ⁠Naval Services FamilyLine Website⁠ (https://nsfamilyline.org/) ⁠NS FamilyLine Facebook⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/nsfamilyline/) ⁠NS FamilyLine Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/nsfamilyline/) If this episode inspired your next family adventure, share it with a fellow military spouse, service member, or military family looking for affordable ways to explore this summer. From our Navy family to yours—happy exploring, and we'll see you next time on Our Navy Life.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

2,335

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.9 / 5

12 ratings

Spotify

4.9 / 5

8 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 45 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

25

Social presence

91

YouTube

68

Engagement

51