On this episode of the Better Bittner Brat Chat podcast, the Bagwell family and friends share candid stories about military service, life overseas, and the close bonds that form in deployment communities. Guests discuss careers in the military and as a contractor, the challenges of moves and deployments, and the humor that keeps them going.

Through personal anecdotes—from Y2K nights in Paris to nicknames, dogs, and shared meals—the conversation highlights family, camaraderie, and the ways service shapes daily life.

Hosts chat with veteran author and mentor Jim McDermott about how military service shapes individuals and families before, during, and after duty. Jim shares stories from his Air Force career, life in Alaska, and his work teaching veterans business skills.

The episode highlights the resilience of military brats, community support, practical advice on small-business finances, and Jim's children’s books inspired by real experiences.

Today we sit down to discuss military life with Buddy Bagwell, Alex Bagwell's father. We talk about all the fun we've had but also our difficulties adapting to life overseas and learning to live the civilian life after the end of a tour of duty. This is a fun episode, and we kept it light and semi-hilarious.

On this laid-back episode of BetterBitnerBratChat / MilitaryBratChat, hosts talk with Alex Bagwell about growing up a military dependent, the hard transition back to civilian life, struggles with addiction and depression, and the healing power of community.

Alex shares stories about life overseas, his passion for cooking and plans for a food truck, reconnecting with old friends, and the podcast’s mission to build resources and support for military brats navigating benefits, identity, and reintegration.

Hosts Amber and Jesse welcome Ashley Drye, a military brat who grew up in the Navy community and lived in places like Germany and East Coast USA. Ashley shares how constant moves shaped her relationships, social anxiety, and love of food, and explains how she turned baking into a small business making quick breads, cookies, and breads.

The conversation covers military family life, holiday traditions from overseas, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, mental-health impacts on military children, and the importance of community and mentorship for veteran and dependent entrepreneurs.

Coleen recounts growing up as a military brat in Germany, building a life in Korea, and the painful experience after her retired father’s death when expected military support and benefits did not materialize.

The episode explores gaps in veteran and retiree services, the emotional aftermath for families, cultural shocks of living abroad, and the importance of community support when institutions fall short.

Two longtime friends reconnect after 20 years to talk life as military dependents — growing up overseas, culture shock, language struggles, school memories, and the lasting bonds that travel with you. They share stories from Germany to South Korea, discuss teaching, mental health, travel, and the value of community for military brats.

Guests reflect on 9/11 memories, family traditions, gaming, music, and practical tips for making friends abroad, while exploring how technology and creative projects help keep the Bratosphere connected.

We sat down and caught up with high school friend Shermaine Perry-Knights. A brilliant professor, and scholar who moved on to publishing and parenthood. We discuss the past, and our dreams for the future as well as the importance for a healthy obsession for other cultures and perspectives. Being a military brat had it's ups and downs but us brats are better for it because we have a more worldly perspective, and some of the most excellent teachers and role models a child could ask for. Shermaine is currently in the middle of a virtual visit tour of any DoDEA schools that would like to see her and have her talk about her life with their kids. Just because the government is shut down doesn't mean that kids should have to suffer by missing school, and educational experiences.